After years of delays and multiple renovation attempts, Chennai's historic Victoria Hall is finally ready to welcome the public once again. The 137-year-old landmark on EVR Periyar Salai near Moore Market is set for its grand reopening early this week, with Chief Minister M K Stalin slated to perform the inauguration.
A New Chapter for a Historic Landmark
The reopening marks the culmination of a long and challenging restoration journey for the iconic structure. Once opened, the historic town hall is expected to reclaim its position as a vibrant public space in the heart of the city. Officials plan to host evening musical performances and speeches by leading orators, with a professional agency appointed to manage the facility.
The two-storey Indo-Saracenic building is an architectural marvel, measuring 48 meters in length and 24 meters in width. Its main roof rises to approximately 19 meters, while the central tower touches an impressive height of 34 meters. For several decades, renovation efforts were stop-start, leaving the heritage building in limbo until the final push by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC).
Last-Minute Preparations and Historical Exhibits
In the run-up to the inauguration, GCC officials worked round the clock to complete final tasks. The forecourt now features eye-catching installations, including replicas of cycle rickshaws, trams, and boats. These displays reflect the transport modes once common in old Madras and are designed to depict the city's rich transport history. An official confirmed that these installations will also serve as popular selfie points for visitors.
Inside the hall, a modern information desk greets visitors. The interiors open into a brightly lit space with polished flooring, where the building's story is told through plaques, photographs, and posters. The display includes political pamphlets of the Justice Party and panels detailing key political events that were once held at this historic venue.
Modern Amenities Within a Heritage Shell
The first floor now houses a fully upgraded performance hall designed for contemporary use. It boasts new interiors, state-of-the-art lighting, and enhanced acoustics, alongside a comfortable lounge area. A mezzanine level offers balcony seating with clear views of the stage below.
An exciting addition is an upper deck that provides panoramic views of the city. However, public access to this deck will be restricted for now due to safety considerations. A GCC official revealed that there are plans to install a telescope at this vantage point at a later stage, once safety measures are fully in place.
The restoration of Victoria Hall is more than just the reopening of a building; it is the revival of a cherished public space that has witnessed over a century of Chennai's history. Its new role as a cultural and performance hub promises to make it a central part of the city's modern life while honoring its storied past.
