Walking through George Town in Chennai, I was reminded of Badrian Garden Street when I spotted its signboard. This name took me on a journey back to the late 1980s, when renowned historian S. Muthiah uncovered significant history tied to this area. He was alerted to the discovery of a 15-foot obelisk at the intersection of Badrian Garden Street and N.S.C. Bose Road. Excited by the find, Muthiah rushed to the site, only to discover that the obelisk had already been demolished by the property owner, who feared government intervention over the structure’s historical significance.
This obelisk was one of six erected in the 1770s to mark the southern boundary of George Town. A 1961 census survey precisely located these markers at spots such as China Bazaar, Parry’s Corner, and Badriah Street-whose name has evolved over time through variations like Budreeah and Badraiya. By 1961, four obelisks were still standing, but only one has survived to this day, sheltered in the shadow of Dare House, guarded by the Murugappa Group.
The Badriah Street referenced earlier differs from Badrian Garden. According to Love’s “Vestiges of Old Madras,” six guardhouses were established in 1718 for the city’s defense, with the sixth building, located by the river, eventually becoming known as a battery. The other guardhouses were named after influential local figures known as dubashes-among them Badriah, a leader of Left Hand Castes recognized in 1717 alongside Gangarama. The area slowly transformed from a defensive structure into a garden commemorating Badriah, likely as peace settled in the city.
In the 1830s, Badriah Garden evolved into a residential area, most notably home to Vambakkam Raghavachariar, the first Indian Police Magistrate in Madras. A graduate of Pachaiyappa’s School, he became one of its first managing trustees. His large residence, known as Vani Vilas, featured an upper story shaped like a ship, a nod to a family member’s success in ship trading. Raghavachariar’s legacy continued through his grandson, V.V. Srinivasa Aiyangar, a distinguished advocate and prominent figure in local theater.
However, navigating Badrian Garden today presents challenges, as remnants of its rich history have largely disappeared. Both Vani Vilas and the nearby Terrace Mahal, previously a hostel for Pachaiyappa’s College students, have vanished, leaving little connection to their storied past. In George Town, the passage of time quickly erases its historical landmarks, emphasizing the transient nature of memory and heritage.
As we walk these streets, we must remember and acknowledge the tales that once flourished here, ensuring that the vibrancy of Chennai’s history isn’t forgotten.
(Sriram V. is a writer and historian.)
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/a-lost-garden-and-a-forgotten-square-in-chennai/article70289765.ece
Category : Chennai
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Publish Date: 2025-11-19 06:00:00
