Quote for the week
“Chennai is like its filter coffee—rich, warm, and full of flavor. It awakens your senses, stirs your soul, and leaves you longing for more.
Madras to Chennai: A Heartfelt Reunion and Timeless Memories
As I fly back to Houston tonight, my heart is full from a wonderful week in Chennai. It was a week that blended the joy of celebrations, the warmth of family, and the nostalgia of my roots.
The highlight of my trip was attending the wedding celebrations of one of my best friends of 45 years. Growing up together, watching our kids transform into young, successful adults, and now witnessing their next chapter—welcoming new family members—was a profound experience. It’s moments like these that remind me of the many gifts life has bestowed upon us, and I feel a deep resolve to pay it forward with kindness and love.
I also cherished the week I spent with my family. The bonding, the laughter, and the small, meaningful moments we shared are treasures I’ll carry back with me. While a week is far too short to soak in all that Chennai has to offer, I managed to make the most of it.
A special highlight was my first-ever trip to Kanchipuram. Walking through the ancient temple corridors, learning about the intricate art of handloom silk saree weaving, and adding a few exquisite Kanchipuram silk sarees to my collection felt like stepping back in time. The day became even more memorable when I had the honor of meeting the seer of the Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt and receiving his blessings.
Chennai, or Madras as it was once called, continues to amaze me with its craftsmanship and artistry. Even the small shop owners in Mylapore exhibit a level of skill and dedication that is unmatched. From jewelry repair and design to polishing and custom creations, they work with precision and deliver results in a matter of days—something that would take weeks and cost a fortune back in the U.S.
No visit to Chennai is complete without savoring its vegetarian delights and, of course, its famous filter coffee. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the simple pleasure of sipping it while reminiscing about old times is a quintessential Chennai experience. Whether it’s a plate of idlis with coconut chutney or a traditional Tamil feast, Chennai’s cuisine is a celebration of flavors and heritage.
As I leave, I am filled with gratitude for my hometown—a city where tradition meets modernity, where temple gopurams coexist with bustling IT corridors, and where the warmth of its people remains unwavering despite the passage of time.
Madras, now Chennai, is more than just a city for me; it is my identity, my anchor, and my source of inspiration. Though I carry its memories in my heart, I already look forward to the day I return to its vibrant streets, soulful culture, and the ever-welcoming embrace of home. Until then, here’s to Chennai—the city that keeps giving and never ceases to amaze.