WEEKEND OUTING NOT FAR AWAY FROM CHENNAI

Have the amusement parks and theaters bored you? Wish there were a different place you could visit. If the malls and hotels are too expensive for you, lose heart not. Here is a quiet nook around the Chennai’s map. Located on the east coast road (ECR) near MGM, a sign board reading DhakshinaChitra guides you in to a steep path with greenery at one end and traditional crafts at the other.

DhakshinaChithra (started by Madras Craft Foundation MCF) was opened on December 1996. The place looks different from the other recreation centers and amusement parks. The place is known for playing host to many foreigners who want to learn about the culture of the diverse people of India. If you are a person who loves culture and heritage, peace and calmness, the place will interest you too.

There are two storied house built of laterite and timber representing the 18th century middle class homes in Kerala. The Merchant’s house, the Potter’s house, Mud houses, Basket weaver’s house, Agriculturist house, Village Ayyanar shrine, Agraharam Brahmin house, Coastal Andhra house, Cattle shed and Granary are the highlights of the place.

Traditional activities like Pottery, Grinding rice, Palm leaf decoration, Kolam, Pounding paddy, Puppet making, Pot making, Pambaram, Golikundu, Terracotta dolls, Block painting, Basket making, Pallanguzhi, Thayam, Kalamkari, Paper mask, Peepul leaf painting entertains the visitors. Puppet shows and workshops are also held here.

So, if you are looking to laze at a place or develop your skills and learn the crafts of India or enjoy peacefully with your family, this is the place to be. DhakshinaChitra is a place that makes you forget your busy urban life.

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