Kathai, Kalai, Parampariyam walks, a unique opportunity to discover the stories that shaped Chennai through culture, history, and art is curated by VR Chennai and conducted by historian V. Sriram. The Virtuous Retail philosophy of Connecting Communities draws the concept of creating lifestyle centers that bring people together and strengthen social pride while reflecting local aesthetics.
The process of translating Virtuous Retail’s design ethos and vision into reality has been backed by extensive research into the art, architecture, culture, and history of the region. As part of its commitment to encourage and nurture indigenous craft, VR Chennai has actively tried to engage with local artists and artisans. The collective of exquisite, specially commissioned artworks at VR Chennai, has been created in partnership with acclaimed artists and guilds such as Kalarings Art Studio, Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Klove Studio, Satish Gupta and Sri Sankara Silpa Sala, amongst others.
The Kathai, Kalai, Parampariyam Walks have been designed to take the visitors through a narrative of the rich heritage of this region. The Kathai walk explores the mythical tales of the Dasavataram, the 10 primary forms of Lord Vishnu. The Kalai walk showcases the indigenous art and architecture of the region through the multiple elements that have been incorporated in the contemporary design of the center including the soaring Gopurams and their intricately carved bases, the pillared mandapams and more. While the Parampariyam walk features a depiction of the tradition and history of this great city, from maps, motifs, coins, seals, which traces the historical and cultural legacy of Chennai.
The previous editions of the walks have seen active participation of various groups from across the city, including the Duchess Club and The International Women’s Association (IWA). Chennai is home to many of us; yet not many know the story of its origin & transformation into the cosmopolitan city it is today. Kathai Kalai Parampariyam walks intend to fill this gap, to remind and to educate the people about the importance of their City in the pages of history.
When: 9th of November, 2019 | 11.30 am
Where: VR Chennai, Anna Nagar
