on the Chettinad trail in Tamil Nadu

byUNESCO New DelhiBernard Dragon, ArchitectMichel Adment, Architect

ForThe Government of Tamil Nadu,Department of Tourism& Culture

A Concept Paper

INDIAN HERITAGE PASSPORT PROGRAMME

ON THE CHETTINAD TRAIL IN TAMIL NADU

UNESCO-BOOKLET-TAMILNADU-16-6-2010.pmd 7/7/2010, 4:51 PM1

IN/2010/CL/31

ForewordIndia’s Unity in Diversity recounted through the wealth of its natural and cultural heritage, and their protection and enhancement

through a concerted effort by government bodies and people at large, are the objectives of the India-UNESCO Heritage

Passport Programme. Launched with the support of the Union Ministry of Tourism in September 2006, the Programme aims

to promote heritage-based regional development through sustainable tourism along a historic itinerary linking several sites

to recount the wealth of India’s lesser know destinations.

Chettinad region, spreading over the districts of Sivagangai and Pudukottai in Tamil Nadu is becoming increasingly part of the popular

tourist destination thanks to the magnificent Raja’s palace in Kanadukathan, and palatial homes scattered across the towns andvillages of the Region. However, beyond these iconic elements, what makes the charm of the towns and villages of Chettinad is

perhaps the beauty of an overall village landscape created by the harmony of architectural elements and urban planning.

Streets in grid pattern, the perfect alignment of houses against street axis, slope of the tiled roof and the height of the

buildings….Even if the façades of the mansions bear witness of personal extravaganza of rich Chettiars families, the Chettinad

villages stand out with their remarkable unity in architectural style that gives unique cultural and heritage identity to the Region.

The present document prepared by the UNESCO expert team gives a meticulous listing of various aspects that constitute the

overall cultural landscape of the Chettinad region in a hope to guide the work of the Government of Tamil Nadu in theirfuture heritage-based tourism development.

From a detail such as the style of beam and columns up to a larger issue such as street and settlement patterns and theprotection of traditional water bodies, namely erys and ooranis, the study invites the government authorities to expand the

scope of heritage management from a single monument to a regional perspective.

The present study was undertaken as part of Revive Chettinad Heritage Campaign that UNESCO has initiated since 2007 with

technical support from a Tamil Nadu-based French NGO, ArcHe-S, Anna University, Chennai, and French Ecole de Chaillot,

and a generous financial and technical contribution of the Regional Council of Centre in France. The initiative was endorsedand supported by the Government of Tamil Nadu. The production of the publication was made possible thanks to the

financial support of La Maison des Indes, a French travel agency specialized in India.

I hope that this study will give a further insight to the Government of Tamil Nadu to guide its work of cultural tourism

development.

UNESCO New Delhi Culture Team


4 Indian Heritage Passport Programme on the Chettinad Trail in Tamil Nadu

UNESCO Survey Team Members

Mr. Bernard Dragon, Architect

Mr. Michel Adment, Architect

Ms. Moe Chiba, Programme Specialist for Culture, UNESCO, New Delhi

Acknowledgements:

Ms. Leena Nandan, Jt Secretary Tourism, Govt. of India

Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture, Thiru Suresh Rajan, Govt. of TN

Dr. Iraianbu, Secretary, Tourism and Culture to Govt. of Tamil Nadu

Mr. M. N. Sanwat Ram, IAS, President, Tamil Nadu Tourism Corporation

Dr. M. Rajaram, Tourism Commissioner, Tamil Nadu Tourism Corporation

Mr. Pankaj Kumar Bansal, Deputy Director, Tamil Nadu Water & Drainage Board (TWAD)

Mr. M.A. Siddique, Former District Collector, Sivagangai

Mr. Darez Ahamed, Additional Collector, Krishnagiri

Mr. Muthu Ramalingam, Chairman, Union Panchayat, Sakottai

Mr. P.L. Gandi, Vice Chairman, Union Panchayat, Sakottai

Mr. RM. N. Karuppaiah, Chairman, Town Panchayat, Kanadukathan

Ms. Ranee Vedamuthu, Head of Dept. of Architecture, Anna University

Mr. Paul Trouilloud & Mr Robert Dulau, La Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine

Ms. Meenakshi Meyyappan, President, Revive Chettinad Society

Ms. Minja Yang, Director, UNESCO, New Delhi

Ms. Nicole Bolomey, Programme Specialist for Culture, UNESCO New Delhi


5Indian Heritage Passport Programme on the Chettinad Trail in Tamil Nadu

Table of Contents

Introduction............................................................7

- The Indian Heritage Passport Programme..........8

- Chettinad Tourism Today...................................9- Heritage Oriented Development of the

Chettinad Region.............................................11

Chettinad Heritage Region.....................................13

- Geography……............................…...............14

- A History……..........................................…....16

- Unique Heritage Elements of Chettinad............21

- The Ambience of the Villages…….........…..…39

Regional Urban and Architectural Identity...............57

- Development of Planning................................59

- From the Street to the House…................…...60

- The Palatial Homes……...............................…62

- Architecture for Climate ……........…..............64

- Space and Functions………............................66

- Elements of Architecture.................................68



Table of Contents

Opportunity for Heritage-Based Development..........77

- Different Possible Itineraries……...................79

- Opportunities for Tourism Development........82

- Challenges to the Development of Tourism....84

Looking to the Future…...........................….……89

- Make Chettinad a Destination.......................90

- Guiding Principles…......….........…...............92

- Action Plan / Revive Chettinad Project…........94

- Chettinad Heritage House.............................96

- Creation of a Heritage Centre........................98

- Elaboration of a Protection &

Development Plan.......................................100

- The Ecomuseum…......................................102

- The Centre for International Exchange.........105

- The Centre for Training and Production

of Handicrafts and Applied Arts……...........105

Credit………......................................…...….....106



Introduction



The Indian Heritage Passport Programme

Uses Heritage-based tourism as a vehicle for local development

Expands the cultural value of Heritage sites and extends tourism to lesser known sites

Develops a ’regional’ Heritage-based tourism beyond individual monuments

Requires the identification of structures, landscape elements and cultural practices

Mobilizing all available cultural resources to provide tourists with diverse experiences

Ensuring a conservation stake for local communities and local economic development

Integrates: Core historic centre

Historic structures

Settlement features and natural environment

Intangible cultural practices

Includes the identification and promotion of Intangible Heritage such as:

Traditional skills for buildings and architecture

Crafts including wood carving, metal work and textiles

Festivals

Performing arts

Cuisine

Brings together, state government, the private sector, NGOs, local artists and crafts people to support

Heritage-based tourism.



Chettinad Tourism Today

Only a few tour operators offer a Tamil

Nadu/Kerala trip from Chennai to Kochi,

taking a route through the major Dravidian

temples such as Thanjavor, Tiruchirapalli

and Madurai. Chettinad is included in

some of these itineraries, which usually

consist of one to two day trips.

Number of visitors per year :

Total Foreign

Tiruchirapally : 20,0 Lakh; 81,600

Thanjavor : 11,0 Lakh; 42 700

Madurai : 41,0 Lakh; 1 Lakh

Rameswaram : 24,0 Lakh; 7,850

Sivagangai D. : 2,7 Lakh; 25,000

Data from Tamil Nadu Tourism Corporation 2006



Travel to Chettinad Today

1 Day trip:

� Thanjavor in the morning;

� Visit to the Palace of the Chettinad

Rajas in Kanadukathan,

� Lunch in Karaikkudi,

� Karaikkudi/Madurai in the afternoon

2 Day trip:

Day 1:

� Thanjavur/Karaikkudi,

� Chettinad Raja’s Palace in

Kanadukathan;

� Houses in Kanadukathan and Pallathur.

Day 2:

� Weavers in Karaikkudi;

� Tiles factory in Athangudi;

� Neman temple

� Lunch in Karaikkudi

� Chettinad/Madurai



The region identified for the Chettinad Heritage Trail in Tamil Nadu consists of a territory of 1,550

square kilometers in the heart of the state, comprising two towns and 73 villages and spread

over the districts of Sivagangai and Pudukottai. The main towns and villages included in the trail

are Karaikkudi, Devakottai, Pallathur, Kottaiyur, Kanadukathan, Kandanur, Kothamangalam,

Rayavaram, Athangudi, Kadiyapatti and the Chettinad Train Station heritage buildings. The trail

will also cover the clan temples, and sacred groves such as Kottadi or Vettangudi and special

features of heritage landscape.

The Indian Heritage Passport Programme will involve:

� Identifying, safeguarding, enriching and managing the heritage resources of the

region;

� Outlining a vision for heritage based development in the region;

� Improving economic opportunities and infrastructure for local communities;

� Promoting responsible cultural tourism as a way of sustaining heritage resources;

� Developing innovative tourism-related activities and improving core and soft

support and infrastructure;

� Developing a framework for tourism oriented investment opportunities in the

region;

� Encouraging local level entrepreneurship and public participation in conservation

management and development of heritage resources.

Heritage Oriented Development of theChettinad Region



Proposed strategy to connect the Chettinad region to the

major sites in Tamil Nadu

Proposed Heritage itineraries for the Chettinad region



Chettinad Heritage Region



Chettinad Heritage RegionGeography

The region of Chettinad is located in the southern part of the State of Tamil

Nadu (South India), with Chennai (Madras) as capital. The main town of the

region is Karaikkudi, which is 400 km from Chennai and 90 km from the major

sites of the state, such as Thanjavor (WHS, UNESCO), Tiruchirapalli and Madurai.

Chettinad is located in an area Northeast of Madurai, North of the River Vaigai

and South of the River Vellar, on a semi-arid plain of 1,550 square kilometers in

the heart of Tamil Nadu-South India. It is inhabited by 110,000 Chettiars who

are spread over two cities and 73 villages.

The Chettinad region receives two monsoons: The South West Monsoon from

July to mid September brings an average of 100ml of rain water at its peak

period. The North East Monsoon from October to December brings heavier

rains with an average of 180 ml.

The region of Chettinad is home to some of the most interesting water

management systems and drainage patterns. Water management was devised

by Chettiars to control the flow of water which was entirely dependent on rain

water resources.

Capital of TN: Chennai, 450 km ;International airport: Tiruchirapalli, 90 km;National airport: Madurai, 90 km;Main town: Karaikkudi, Train StationMain tourism area: Kanadukathan, Historical Chettinad train stationCoordinates: 10°10’N, 78°46’E

Location Map of the Chettinad

Region in Tamil Nadu






There is no scientific and historical proof of the Chettiars origin. However, few legends are

being told and some resources give elements and evidences about their origin:

1- The Chettiar Heritage (2000), S.Muthiah, M. Meiyappan, V. Ramasamy

The Chettiar Heritage Publishers

S.Muthiah, M. Meiyappan and V. Ramasamy are part of some key families of Chettiar

community and militate for the preservation of their culture.

[…] The Chettiar settled most probably in the middle of the 19th century. According to the

legend, they were originally from the village of Poombukar (old Kaveripattinam) near Tanjore,

in a coastal area. After a devastating tsunami, they started looking for a dry area, so they

settled in Chettinad. The fact that the houses are set back with steps is supposed to show

their fear of having another tsunami. […]

“In the Pandyanadu, the Chettiars settled in 4 villages around the temple in Ilayathangudi

(25 km from Karaikuddi). As the communities grew in number they came to be known as

the Natukottai Chettiars who established new settlements. They also began to seek and

grant new temples which are in nine clan temples existing today. As result, the nine clans

became a focal point located right at the centre of Chettinad. […]

From the middle of the 19th century, the sense of commerce of the Chettiars has led to a

prosper period during which they contributed to the development of Chettinad. Since

Chettiars’ main occupation was trading, they travelled all over the world. […]

After the independence, the ninety six villages shrunk to seventy five. The most likely reason

would be the migration to villages much closer to the faster developing villages. Today, we

can see in Chettinad a glance of its prosper period, through the houses. They contain

precious jewels and crafts from all the world.”

Chettinad Heritage RegionA History



2- David West Rudner (1987), “Religious gifting and Inland commerce in seventeenth century South India”,Journal of Asian studies, Vol. 46, n°2

David West Rudner’s anthropologic study is based, in part, on field research carried out in Tamil Nadu from October1979 to November 1981.

[…] “Vital component in the south Indian economy, they represent the major banking caste of South India during theperiod of 1870 to 1930: a corporate organization of men and families that has been crucial to processes of capitalaccumulation, distribution and investment.

[…] The Nakarattar caste numbered perhaps ten thousand in 1896, forty thousand in 1920, by 1980 approximatelyone hundred thousand people. Their lifestyle combined qualities common to settled agriculturalists, urban industrialistsand itinerant merchants. Although it is possible to trace many Nakarattar commercial practices back to the Cholaperiod, the caste itself does not appear in the historical record until the 17th century, when they were involvedprimarily in small scale, itinerant salt trading activities in the interior regions of Tamil Nadu.

By the 18th century, some individuals had extended their business operations as far south as the pearl, rice, cloth, andarrack trade of Ceylon. As in the case of other mercantile groups, trade was inseparable from money lending and othercredit-extending operations.

By the 19th and early 20th centuries, Nakarattars were the major sources of finance for myriad agrarian transactionsbetween Burma, Ceylon, Malaya, and the Madras presidency. They dominated the role of mercantile intermediarybetween the British rulers and local populations by monopolizing important components of the credit, banking, andagrarian systems of Southeast Asia and by remitting huge amounts of capital from Southeast Asia back to their southIndian homeland for industrial investment and large scale philanthropy.

During the 20th century, the Nakarattar business environment was altered in crucial ways by the development ofnationalistic movements in Southeast Asian countries, by the general growth of legislation restricting indigeneousforms of banking and by the increase in industrial opportunities within India for non British businessmen. Theconsequences were significant. The caste organization of the Nakarattars began to unravel in the face of multigovernmental interference with traditional banking practices. Non elite Nakarattars, perhaps 80 to 90 percent of thecaste, were forced to scramble for new employment opportunities.” […]



Chettinad Heritage RegionA History

Migration Map of the

Chettiars

3- Edgar Thurston (1909), “Nattukottai Chetti”, Castes and Tribes of South India,

Government Press Madras

Edgar Thurston was a British museologist and ethnographer working in colonial

Southern India. Superintendent of the Government Museum. He wrote the seven

volumes of “Castes and Tribes of Southern India”; a standard reference on the subject.

They were wealthy money lenders with head quarters in the Tirupattur and

Devakottai divisions of the Sivaganga and Ramnad zamindaris in the Madura district.

It is stated in the Madura manual (1901) “The word Nattukottai is said to be a

corruption of Nattarasankottai, the name of a small village near Sivaganga. But

this derivation appears to be doubtful. The name is usually said to be derived from

Nattukottai, or country fort.

It has been said that “the Nattukottai Chettis, in organization, co-operation and

business methods, are as remarkable as the European merchants”. […]

By a traditional custom, the Nattukottai Chettis live largely by money lending. They

either trade in their own account, or are employed as agents or assistants. […]

As concerning the origin of the Natukottai Chettis, the following story is told. In

ancient days, the Vaisyas were living in the town of Santhyapuri in the Naganadu of

the Jambudvipa. They were much oppressed by a certain ruler and emigrated in a

body to Conjeeveram in the Tondamandalam country in the year 204 of the Kaliyuga.

The king of Conjeevaram gave them the permission to settle in his territory, and

made grants to them a land, temples and matams. They stayed here for a very long

time but, being troubled by heavy taxes and fines, left this part of the country

about 2312 Kaliyuga, and settled in the Chola country.



About 3775 Kaliyuga, Puvandi Chola Raja imprisoned several of the Vaisya women, whereon all the 8000 Vaisya

families destroyed themselves, leaving their male children to be taken care of by a religious teacher named

Atmanadhachariar. The king accordingly made them marry Vellala girls.

About 3808, a Pandya king, named Sundara Pandya, is said to have asked the Chola king to induce some of the Vaisyas to

settle down in the Pandya territory. They accordingly once more emigrated and reached the village of Onkarakudi. The

Chettis became divided into three sections, of which the Ilayaththukudi and Sundarapattanam are found at the present day

at the Madura district. The members of the Ilayaththukudi section became the Nattukottais.

They, not satisfied with only one place of worship, requested the king to give them more temples. Accordingly, temples were

provided for different groups at Maththur, Vairavanpatti, Iraniyur, Pillayarpatt, Nemam, Illupaikudi, Suraikudi, and Velangkudi.

[…] According to a variant of the story relating to the origin of the Nattukottai Chettis, “they were formerly merchants

at the court of the Chola kings who ruled at Kaveripattanam, at one time flourishing sea-port at the mouth of the

Cauveri, from which they emigrated in a body on being persecuted

by one of them, and first settled at Nattarasankottai, about three

miles north east of Sivaganga”.

By other castes, the Nattukotai Chettis are said to be the descendants

of the offspring of unions between a Shanan and a Muhammadan

and Uppu Korava women.”

EMPIRES IN ASIA AT EARLY 20th CENTURY

CHETTIAR COUNTERS IN ASIA IN 1900

British possessions

Other empires

Russian possessions

French possessions

Dutch possessions

Major cities

Chettinad region

Main Chettiar Countersin Asia



4- The Origin of the Nattukottaiyars and their Communal practices,Tamil manuscript from mid-19th, Translation (2004) M. Gobalakichenane, East West Books Madras

It is a mid-19th century manuscript unearthed in the Bibliothèque Nationale, Paris and is part of the collection ofEdouard Ariel, a indologist who live in Tamil Nadu from 1818 to 1854. It constitutes an important testimony in Tamilcultural history. Mr M. Gopalakichnane, is an engineer hailing from Pondicherry and settled in France.

”Their village number is 96 within a square area of 4 kathams. The main town where they live is Devakottai. In oldendays Kaveripattinam was the capital of the Chola king. During his reign, the prosperous Vellalars of his country assumedthe name of Chettis. […]

The prince found out that the above mentioned Chettis were as rich as the king and their abodes were as large as theking’s palace. He proclaimed that they should seek his audience by entering a place with seven small entrances. Theydid so, thus showing no courtesy to the prince seated, showing their backside to him. Fearing punishment for this actof discourtesy, those Chettis set fire to their lodgings and many perished in the fire. 1011 young sons of those perishedin the fire took refuge with their Brahmin tutors. […]

The Pandya king who was then ruling Madurai in the south was for a long time concerned that there were no Chettisin his kingdom. Hearing about this, the Brahmin who was the guardian of the above mentioned boys brought them tothe king who rejoiced and asked them to colonize as much land as they wanted South of the Vegai and North of theVelar. Thus they settled first in the village of Devakottai of the king’s territory. Since no women accompanied thoseyoung men, the latter married women from the Kallar, Maravar, Sanar, Agamudiyar and Oddar communities. […]

Just like the Vellalars of Kaveripattinam who never bowed their head, the Illayathankudiyars called Nattukkottaiyarsalso do not pay obeisance by joining hands or bowing head to any one of authority. Therefore, even if they cannot beconsidered as true Vellalars, they should also be termed as other numerous subgroups inside the Vellalars, as a type ofsubgroup. […] The Ilayathankudiyars, whose origin is ignored are sometimes unjustly referred to as Sanars. The abovementioned Ilayathabkudiyar including those inland and those who have travelled abroad on business and the womennumber about 50 000. In their homeland, they are agriculturists and traders. Abroad they are only merchants. […]

Forty years ago, the above mentioned community was very poor. In the past few years since they have acquired wealth,they have attained prominence troughout the world because of their overseas trading. […]Year 1847"



Chettinad Heritage RegionUnique Heritage Elements of Chettinad



Raja’s Palace in Kanadukathan

The PalatialHomes

Unique Heritage Elements of ChettinadChettinad Heritage Region



Courtyard at the Raja’s PalaceReception hall in Karaikkudi



The Clan Temples

Chettinad is a geo-cultural territory which is organized

around the 9 clan temples. Each member of the Chettiar

community belongs to a clan and each clan has its own

temple run by its own committee.

Velangudi Clan Temple Map showing the sub chettiar areas with the clan temples.Map from S. Muthiah

Unique Heritage Elements of ChettinadChettinad Heritage Region



The 9 Clan Temples are:

Illayathakudi

Mattur

Vairavan

Iraniyur

Pillaiyarpatti

Nemam

Illupaikudi

Soraikudi

VellankudiNemam Clan Temple




Ooranis

Oorani in Koviloor

Unique Heritage Elements of Chettinad

Matta Oorani in Kanadukathan



Oorani is a Tamil word for the surface water storage tank located in the villages and towns. In Chettinad, each village

comprises a minimum of three water bodies in accordance with the storage needs of the villagers for drinking and

bathing. The roofs typical of Chettinad architecture are designed to harvest water in the courtyards and then divert to

the various different ponds through a water drainage network.

Laterite steps in Puduvayal Oorani, Shivan Temple in Kothamangalam




Erys

Ery between Kanadukathan and Kothamangalam




Erys

Erys are the traditional surface water storage reservoirs found in Tamil Nadu. Organized into a huge network over the

ages, they have played a very important role for the ecosystem and for irrigation in areas with low-rainfall, such as

Chettinad. Due to this climatic constraint, since settling in the region, the Chettiars have been particularly involved in

sustainable water management for agriculture and therefore in shaping the landscape.

Ery near Kanadukathan Below the ery rice fields near Kanadukathan




Ayyanar Temple

Terracotta figures in the Ayyanar shrine at Kotadi and Kothamangalam in the district of Sivagangai




Protector Daemon near Karaikkudi

Ayyanar’s Horse near Karaikkudi

Ayannar is the Tamil God “of everything“: rain maker, god of the children, cattle,

villages, earth, nature and villagers. He is present in rural areas. 60 places of worship

are estimated in the region. The specificity is that he is not always in the temples and

is covered with offerings in terra-cotta. The season of offerings is between April and

September and the ritual duration is maximum 3 days. Although his army is

represented, Ayyannar is seldom shown. Karapu is his right-hand man and leads

the battles.

The decision of the daytime festival is made by a committee of poojaris comprising

of wise men (elders), astrologers and potters (Vellars). Everybody meets to decide on

the day almost one month before the day of the offering. The potters are very

important in the Ayannar sites as they are considered to “convey the desire of the

man towards God“. The problem today, is to ensure the transfer of know-how of

potters which is supposed to be hereditary in certain villages. There are less and less

potters and many of them come from other areas.

The priest of the temple place gives the first order. The terra cotta figures are offered

by the villagers to Ayyannar. Villagers can also order terra cotta guard, dogs, snakes

for the protection of all the animals of the village. During the rituals, the figures are

brought into the temple. A spot of blood of hen is then applied between the eyes,

thus giving life to the figures.




Chettinad Train Station

The plaza in front of the Chettinad Train Station Raja’s Guest House at the Chettinad Train Station




Chettinad Train station: Raja’s Guest house Chettinad Train station: Station Master Chettinad Train station: Raja’s Guest house

The Chettinad train station is the historic gateway to the region. It is part of a well planned area which connects the

core of Kanadukathan (with its Raja’s palace) to the shivan temple, the Raja’s Island, the cotton mills and the train

station. Recently the station has been transferred to a new building. The surviving 1920’s train station and the Raja’s

Guest house, organized around a plaza with the pleasant shade of trees form part of the Chettinad heritage area.



The Art Deco Style

The Chettinad region comprises a

great number of striking “Art Deco”

style houses (also called “French Art

Deco”). Largely built in the 1940/

1950’s, the buildings display

architectural elements of different

influences taken from both East

and West. Many villages have

examples of this typical late Art

Deco style. Karaikkudi has an

important Art-Deco quarter, which

includes the Thousand Windows

House making it ideal for heritage

walks.





Art Deco house in Kothamangalam Art Deco house in Kanadukathan

Karaikkudi

Rayavaram

Art Deco front elevation of the Twin House in Kanadukathan



Living Heritage: The Skills

Chariot makers Metal work Wood work Athangudi tiles

Kotan Jewelry Cotton weaving





Living Heritage: The Traditions and the Living Arts

Village festival: Ayyanar procession

Art of Kolam Puja at Pongal function

Chettinad cuisine Barathanattyam performance



Natural Heritage: Sacred Woods

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Kandanur Ayyanar shrine in a sacred grove

Small shrine with sacred wood near Kandanur





Chettinad Heritage RegionThe Ambience of the Villages




The Bazar and the Chandy market

The Ambience of Karaikkudi

Karaikkudi is the

economic heart of

Chettinad situated

in the district of

Sivagangai. Despite

land speculation and the

economic pressure on

real estate, one can still

see distinct Chettiar

areas across the town

which still contain a

variety of the styles of

houses. Chettinad is one

of the only remaining

sites in the state which

bears testimony to Tamil

architecture and urban

planning.



Chettinad Heritage RegionThe Ambience of Karaikkudi



Chettinad Heritage RegionThe Ambience of Kanadukathan



Typical house with an important palatial façade Raja’s Palace: Abundance of decorative elements

Large Shape of the Raja Street Peaceful street with important set back of the houses

Kanadukathan is the

heart of the current

tourism trail in Chettinad

situated in the district of

Sivagangai, comprising

around 5000 inhabitants.

It is the village where the

palace of the Rajas and

two of the mansions

converted into heritage

hotels are located.

Visitors can appreciate

the peaceful ambience of

the large streets of the

village set in a semi-

urban context. Some

new hotels are also

coming up and will open

soon.




North/South and East/West Cross Street in theChettiar Quarter

East/West Cross Street in the Chettiar Quarter

Ambience in Pallathur

Pallathur, also situated in

the district of Sivagangai, is

an important Chettiar

village of more than

10,000 Inhabitants located

near Kanadukathan. Its

regular North/South urban

grid pattern was established

by the community at the

Zenith of their economic

prosperity at the end of 19th

century. The abundance of

decorative elements on the

facades demonstrates the

opulence of the community

at that time.

Chettiar House seen from a North/South Street North/South Street with entrances and façade



Details of façade showing four layers of balustrade andfive cornices

Details of window with stuccoornaments such as columns, Yalliand flora

Detail of pilaster topped by stuccocapital and cornice




Kottaiyur is a large

village of 10 000

inhabitants located 6

km from the main

town of Karaikkudi.

The rapid

development of the

economic heart of the

region has blurred the

distinct boundaries

between Kottaiyur

and Karaikkudi. As a

result, Kottaiyur is

exposed to economic

pressure from its

neighbour. Huge

mansions still remain

in the village despite

this pressure,

however. A small

private museum of

chettiar life-style is

under preparation.

Ambience in Kottaiyur



Outstanding 3 Storey House opposite the Shiva Temple on Puduvayal road




1900’s Chettiar Mansion in the corehistorical area: Important setback of themain building with front gardens on eachside of the entrance arch

Other 1900’s Chettiar Mansion in the corehistorical area: Important entrance arch onthe alignment of the street; small setback ofthe main building

40’s Chettiar Bungalow showing a variety ofinfluence in the elements of architecture

Other 40’s Chettiar Bungalow with Mogul,Gothic and Art Deco style of architecture

Kandanur is a village of

3, 500 inhabitants located 6 km

from the main town of

Karaikkudi on the road to

Puduvayal and Sakkottai. The

village administration is also

running the non Chettiar

adjacent village of Palaiyur as

well as the small Chettiar

village of Alagapuri. These

three villages form a single

urban area. The core historical

area of Kandanur is comprising

important 1900’s and later

Chettiar houses while the

1870/80’s houses of Alagapuri

are smaller in scale but very

richly decorated.

Ambience in Kandanur



Narrow Chettiar street with monumental entrance archesand small setback

Important mansions along the Raja Street, punctuated bytheir monumental arches and topped by canopies




Main Street with its alignment of high compound walls marked by a series of impressive porches

Kothamangalam is a peaceful

village of 3, 300 inhabitants

located at the Northern

border of Sivagangai

district and 4 km from

Kanadukathan, and Pallathur.

Even though many homes in

the village have disappeared,

it remains a living place where

a number of great mansions

still exist displaying the

splendour of their facades and

the typical alignment of their

high compound walls marked

by series of important

entrance porches. Most of

them were built between

1900 and 40’. The small

village of K. Lakshmipura

is also part of

Kothamangalam village

Panchayat but few of the

huge mansions remain.

Ambience in Kothamangalam



Shape of cornice showing the different spaces ofthe building

A 40’ House showing different architecturalinfluences

Alignment of high compound walls marked byimportant porches

Art Deco House on the Main Street




Large Chettiar Mansion in the “Pudu” Quarter,south of Shivan Temple

Series of Mansions in a narrow street of the oldChettiar Quarter

Series of Mansions in a large street of the newChettiar Quarter

Impressive Mansions in the new Chettiar Quarter

Ambience in Rayavaram

Rayavaram is a large village

of 5000 inhabitants

situated in the district of

Pudukottai. It is located 6

km from Kothamangalam

and is also well connected

to Kadiyapatti and

Thirumayam Fort on Trichy

road. Rayavaram is well

endowed with historic

Chettinad homes in four

distinct zones around

shivan temple. They

represent over 150 years of

domestic architecture.



Series of Mansions of different inspirations located in some large streets of the new Quarter, south of Shiva Temple



Chettinad Heritage RegionAmbience in Kadiyapatti

Also situated in the district of Pudukottai, Kadiyapatti is located 4 km from Rayavaram and 5 km from Kothamangalam

and is very well connected to Thirumayam Fort. Kadiyapatti has very unique, large and magnificent mansions

embellished with a vast number of architectural features such as towers, domes, arches, cornices, parapets, balcony,

important porches,terracotta figures, balustrades and pedestal urns. The valuable heritage of the village is however

slowly disappearing falling prey to uncontrolled trade in antiques, facilitated by the relative isolation of the village

from the main road.



Series of balustrades, cornices towers and domes Terracotta and stucco ornaments



A Tower of Mogul influence topped by a dome



Regional Urban and Architectural Identity



Urban Development: From Free Pattern to Urban Grid

As a result of their travels, the Chettiars have integrated diverse influences into their traditions which have contributed

to their uniqueness. Their villages were constructed following precise and sophisticated rules of urban planning

(orthogonal streets, specific water management schemes, technical innovation, artistic creativity, etc.). These settlements

are also built in harmony with Tamil traditions: rectangular plots, houses with an inner courtyard (often with around 3

or 4 courtyards).




Development of Planning

Over the course of time, the

settlement of the village of

Kanadukathan has evolved

into a perfect urban grid

pattern. The Chettiars also had

a vision of planning which

aimed at connecting the

Chettinad train station, the

airport, the Shiva temple and

the Raja’s Island to the core

of the village with the palace

of the Raja.




Maximum height of the buildings: Ground floor + 1

The compound wall is a specific feature which is particular to the urban landscape of the Chettinad villages. A peripheral

wall runs around each property containing the house and outhouses. On the street sides, the wall is aligned with the

street axis, running from the North to South with important arches/doors facing one each other on an East to West

axis. These arches serve as the main gates of the properties and are a demonstrable symbol of wealth. The compound

wall provides an overall coherence with the different villages of the region. Inside the compound the building and its

facade are set back on a common alignment with the other buildings of the street. The space between the entrance

gate and the facade wall is primarily for visitors who can sit in the outdoor tinnai. The height of the building never

exceeds 2 levels, the ground floor and a first floor.

From the Street to the House

Maximum height of compound walls : 2 meters

Compound walls elevation, CVCT Street in the village of Kanadukathan

Compound walls alignmentPlan showing the alignment of the buildings and compound walls in CVCT Street in the village of Kanadukathan

Street elevation, CVCT Street in the village of Kanadukathan



Front façade, CV House in the village of Kanadukathan

Front façade, Mutiah House in the village of Kanadukathan

On the ground floor, the architecture is typically

Tamil, with the outdoor tinnai and inner tinnai

(pattalea), the central courtyard (nadu veassel) with

its puja rooms (rettai vidu) on each side. However

one can also see Western influences on the front

façade and higher floors, with features of classical

architecture, such as a series of colonnades, cornices,

multi-level balustrades, parapets and symmetrical

organization following the classical genre.

Façades




These different architectural

influences reflect the way

of life of the Chettiars,

who knew how to

combine their vibrant

traditions with influences

from the global economy.

The planning style has also

evolved over decades.

Pavilions, halls and

courtyards were added for

business purposes and as

areas for receptions and

weddings, making these

traditional houses real

palatial homes. In order to

build these palaces,

materials and expertise

were brought from all

over the world which only

added to the cultural glory

of Chettinad.

The Palatial Homes



Many of these houses have evolved over nearly

two centuries and are veritable palaces.

Constructed on mounds, they feature

verandas, reception halls and court rooms

situated along a longitudinal axis. This

organization mirrors the structure of the

society and the rules of the community.

Axonometric projection of a palatial Chettiarhouse Outdoor tinnai, Inner tinnai, Main ReceptionHall, Main Courtyard, Dining Room, Wedding Hall,

Women’s Courtyard, Kitchen and Servant Courtyard




Due to their settlement in a hot and semi

arid region the Chettiars have taken their

climate into consideration in the design

of their homes and the materials used.

The houses are built around an East/West

central courtyard which brings shadows,

light, coolness and air and the materials

used for the construction such as bricks

for the walls, lime plasters, terracotta tiles

roofing, marbles and stones floors are

essential component. The slopes of the

roofs are important and allow the

collection of rain water during the

monsoon season. Drainage feeds the

water from the courtyard ponds into

storage tanks.

Architecture for Climate



The rain water is collected from the central courtyard and divertedto storage water tanks



Regional Urban and Architectural IdentitySpace and Function

A. Visitors-Guests-Chettiars

3- Entrance

4- Outdoor tinnai

B. Men - Business

5- Inner tinnai – Main Hall

6- Main Courtyard

12- Puja Rooms

C. Women - Chettiars

12- Puja Rooms

13- Storage Rooms

14- Women’s Courtyard

D. Servants - Service

15/16- Kitchen Courtyard

Backyard Garden



14-Women’s Courtyard3-Entrance

5-Inner tinnai

15-Kitchen Courtyard4-Outdoor tinnaiVisitors-Guest-Chettiars

Family System

6-Main CourtyardMen-Business

14-Women’s CourtyardWomen-Chettiars

15-Kitchen CourtyardServants-Quarters

Nagarathrars was an undivided joint family (valavu) containing several co resident “hearth-holds” or”conjugal families” (pullis) andextending to three or four generations under direction of the oldest active male. The pulli was the basic reproductive and dailyconsumptive unit of the Nakarattar caste. It normally comprised a married man, his wife, their children, and other dependents.

The term valavu literally denotes the architectural portion of a Nakarattar house, consisting of a central courtyard and the surrounding ring ofrooms housing each of the resident pullis. Corridor surrounding the valavu lead to arais (rooms) one or two in number one within the othercalled ‘ul-arai’ and ‘veli-arai’ which was used by the pullis who shared the family business for their private use and their personal storage. Eachpulli had its own living quarters and cooking hearth There are many a times more than one kitchen, one for each pulli (married couple).K. Sasidhar, Dr. R. Vedamuthu, An Anthrop – Arch Approach to the Study of the Contemporary Chettiar Dwelling of Tamilnadu, India




RoofscapeAs seen previously,

Chettinad roofs have

great importance as a

tool for collecting rain

water and for air

cooling. The repetition

of rectangular plots,

positioned in

accordance with the

major axes East/West

and North/South, the

organization of the

houses in successive

courtyards and the

hierarchy of the

pavilions with sloping

and terrace roofs has

created a specific

“roofscape”, unique

to Chettinad.

Elements of Architecture






Arches andPorchesThe rural landscape of

the Chettinad region is

marked by a series of

elegant arches on the

main roads that go

around the villages.

Further, each house has

an imposing entrance

porch at the level of

compound wall

showcasing the wealth

and the social status of

the owner. These richly

decorated porches

showing influence from

various architectural

styles are the essence of

Chettinad heritage

identity.







ColumnsTwo main types of column are specific to Chettiar houses: The wooden

columns are mainly used for inside areas and stone pilars for the courtyards

(main or kitchen). In a later period, granite pillars were used in the outdoor

tinnai. The elegance of the shaped wooden columns is very typical of

Chettinad.


Typical section with location of typologies of columns

Entrance tinnai Main courtyard Back sidemain courtyard

Kitchencourtyard



Raja and Rani Ornamental elements Hunter and his prey Dieties: Laxmi and Lord Krishna

Concrete FiguresEvery house is embellished

with concrete figures. Front

façades were subject to

particular attention and one

can see different themes of

inspiration: Deities, such as

Gajalaxmi, Lord Shiva or Lord

Krishna; kings and queens,

rajas and ranis, British

soldiers, hunters, or

allegorical representations of

fauna and floral




BalustradesParapets andCornicesBalustrades, parapets and

cornices are very much part

of the architectural identity

of the region. The stucco

cornices create elegant

lines around the walls

which follow the different

levels and pavilions of the

house. Different layers of

balustrades and parapets

increase the grandeur of

these huge mansions,

giving them a palatial

dimension. These particular

elements of architecture

are mostly made of

Chettinad plaster with

delicate combinations of

natural colours.




Above: Imposts wood work carvingLeft: Main door from 1870s’Below: Sophisticate wooden top column

Wooden Carving FeaturesThe Chettiars used to bring teak from

Burma back to their country (nadu) during

their economic expansion in eastern Asia.

Before the use of modern materials such

as iron in construction, the structures of

their homes were made from bricks, stone

pillars and teak wood beams. The flare of

the columns were shaped with pure lines.

They brought and developed skills such as

wood carving. Tops of pillars, door frames,

door and window imposts and ceilings were

delicately carved with great inspiration:

Goddesses, Yallis, flora and fauna and

geometry are present in every element.

Chettinad therefore, became a centre of

excellence in wood carving skills during the

community’s most affluent period.




Stuccos and WallPaintingsChettinad plaster is very famous for

its soft texture and appearance while

being quite firm. It has endured

through years and centuries. This

particular material is made of sea

shell lime and eggs. It is the last stage

in a long process of wall finishing.

The bricks are coated with different

layers of white lime mortars, then

finished with lime plaster. The

Chettinad plaster is the last layer

which gives both softness and

hardness as well as brightness and

coolness to the walls.

The art of painting frescoes onto

these plaster walls has also been

developed across the region.

Paintings on door or window

transom, friezes along the cornices

and so on, combine both aesthetic

and spiritual sensibilities.




Opportunity for Heritage-Based Development



Opportunity for Heritage-Based Development

Cultural Tourism:At present, the Chettinad region is practically unknown to tourist guides. To date, only a few tour operators have

included the visit to the Raja’s Palace (with lunch in an old bungalow that has been converted into a charming guest

house) in their programme. The fact that this region has been excluded from traditional tourist itineraries is all the

more surprising as South India is very rich in temple architecture (Dravidian temples) but poor in domestic architecture

and palaces. By including this Chettinad region, tourists will gain a considerably more complete picture of another way

of life in South India.

A major objective of the project is to promote cultural pursuits that are off the beaten track to Indian tourists and international

visitors. The early signs of tourism development can already be seen. Two guest rooms have been created in mansions. The

Kerala hotel chain, CG Earth has restored an “Art Deco” palace. The Neemrana hotels group, managed by experts in the

field of transforming heritage buildings into hotels, is studying the possibility of setting up a small establishment. The

Sangam Group and some other individuals have already started converting heritage buildings into hotels.

Alternative initiatives such as Bed and Breakfast could be undertaken by home owners with the help of the experts to

convert some of their rooms and other premises into guest accommodation of an international standard. Bio solutions

for sustainable resources, such as water treatment and solid waste treatment, for example, must be considered when

developing tourism in a fragile rural context. These matters must be subject to a protection plan and can then be

included into the future development programme and master plan.



Different Possible Itineraries



Different Possible Itineraries

Development of a Heritage-basedItinerary:1 day tour :

A General Overview / Tour of the Region:

Karaikkudi, Pallathur, Kotadi Ayyanar Temple,

Kanadukathan, Athangudi tiles, Neman Temple.

2/6 day tour :

Architectural and Urban Trail, 1day :

Karaikkudi, Kottaiyur and its Chettinad Heritage House,

Pallathur, Kanadukathan and the Raja’s palace,

Kothamangam, Rayavaram, Kadiyapatti. Village heritage

walks including a visit to a number of private homes.

Country Planning Trail, ½ day :

Raja’s Palace, Chettinad Train Station restored as an

interpretation centre, Raja’s Island, Shivan Temple,

Cotton Mills, Pallathur Road.

Temple Trail, 1day :

Clan temples: Pillaiyarpatti, Neman, Vairavan, Vellangudi;

Village temples: Koviloor, Athangudi, Kudrakundi;

Ayyanar temples: Kotadi, Karaikkudi, Vettankudi.



Handicraft Trail, 1 day:

Metal work in Pallathur; wood work; chariot makers and handloom weaving in Karaikkudi;

Concrete tiles in Athangudi; Kotans near Pillaiyarpatti; Kollam workshop in a variety of villages.

Cuisine Training, 1 day:

A Chettinad cuisine experience could be offered to the visitors in hotels and restaurants, or as a

participative experience with local residents. A visit to the weekly Chandy market could be theintroduction to the experience.

Sea shore Trail, 1 day:

Chettinad is located 40 Km from the seaside. Mimisal is a nice end destination to a route whichcrosses verdant countryside. It also provides an opportunity to visit the village potters who make

beautiful horse, cow or elephant figures, offered to the local deity of Ayyanar during the TamilNew Year festivities. Avudaiyarkovil Temple is one of the most interesting temples under Chettiar

influence in southern Tamil Nadu with very unique stone carving over the shrine.

Nature Trail ½ day:

Bird watching nearby traditional water systems (erys) and in rice fields. Visit to Vettangudi Bird

Sanctuary and its sacred wood.

Art Deco Trail 1 day:

Walk around the important 1920-40’s area of Karaikkudi with a visit to the 1000 Windows

House. Other villages such as Kanadukathan, Kothamangalam or Rayavaram contain examplesof Art Deco architectural heritage which would be interesting for tourists.



Opportunities for Tourism Development

A Central Location in Southern Tamil Nadu

Chettinad today is a peaceful place to stay and many visitors would appreciate the opportunity to discover some of

southern Tamil Nadu’s major sites which are dotted around the region. Daily tours could start from Chettinad, visiting

town temples such as Madurai, Tiruchirapalli and Thanjavor which are within 80/90 km of Chettind or 120 km in the

case of Rameswaram. Visitors could then extend their stay in the region for a different experience of the Tamil region.

The New Railway Line from Chennai to Rameswaram :

The new railway line was launched in August 2008, connecting Chennai to Rameswaram, with stops in Karaikkudi and

Chettinad’s heritage train station. Two overnight trains are currently in service.

The Improvement of the Major Roads :

The improved network of highways and major roads in Tamil Nadu will improve the accessibility of the region and can

facilitate and increase tourism-based development in the region.

Well Connected by Air with two Airports only 90 Km from the Region :

Madurai is a national airport with daily connections to Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai. Tiruchirapalli is an international

airport which connects South India to Sri Lanka, but also to Chennai. Both Madurai and Tiruchirapalli are 2 hours drive

from Karaikkudi.

Well Preserved Region :

There is an increasing awareness in the media of the future potential of Chettinad as an attraction to visitors, and it is

attracting those who are keen to have an off-the-beaten track experience. The time has come to prepare for the arrival

of these enthusiasts; people who are looking for hidden treasures and an authentic shared experience. Chettinad is a

real treasure trove of authentic and well preserved urban architecture, and of ecological riches.



Re-use of Palatial Homes :

Many of the Chettinad mansions could easily be converted into heritage hotels with moderate alterations or appropriate

extensions. Owners could also begin to improve parts of their homes in order to develop sustainable tourism.

A Large Geo-Cultural Territory :

Chettinad is a large geo-cultural region with 73 villages spread over 1500 Km2. Even if the process to protect and

monitor the development of the entire area is a long one, the fact remains that this unique and varied heritage has to

be explored.

Inclusion into the 2008 Watch List of the World Monuments Fund:

The NGO ArcHe-S has proposed Chettinad for inclusion into the 2008 Watch List of the WMF, with the endorsement

of UNESCO New Delhi. Chettinad was included in the list in June 2007. ArcHe-S will submit Chettinad for the 2010

Watch List in order to promote awareness of its potential for sustainable heritage-based development.



Challenges to the Development of Tourism

Threats and Challenges

Economic pressures and land speculation in the big cities of Tamil Nadu have eliminated almost all of the state’s

traditional houses. Chettinad is the only remaining site which bears testimony to Tamil architecture and urban planning.

Massive Desertion

The Chettiars have largely abandoned their homes in this region, along with the economic activity that underpinned

their luxurious way of life. The splendid heritage left by past generations has been progressively eroded but the solid

materials from which they were built have enabled them to stand proud, despite the onslaught of time and attrition.

The Lucrative Business of Antiques

It is not only time that threatens these beautiful houses, but also the lucrative business around the export of columns,

windows, ceilings and decorative elements. Houses and entire villages are rapidly vanishing, packed into containers

and headed for western countries.

Lack of Protection and Regulations in a Large Territory

Chettinad is in the early stage of tourism development. As yet, the buildings and the surroundings are not protected.

The development of key areas such as Karaikkudi, Devakottai, Kottaiyur, Pallathur, Kanadukathan, Kandanur, Rayavaram

or Kadiyapatti and other places, needs careful planning to include both the heritage and development agendas and

to take into account the interests of multiple stakeholders.

Growth without Planning and Stakeholder Partnerships



Bad Future



Bad Future



Challenges to the Development of Tourism

Diagram showing location of demolished heritage houses in the village of Kanadukathan

Massive Desertion, Demolition, Lack of Maintenance

Altough Kandukathan is still a great testimony to the past glory of the community’s lifestyle, it is estimated that a large

number of heritage houses have already been demolished such as shown below with red hatch. Only the mounds on

which the homes were built remain or sometimes an entrance door or a portion of wall. The disappearance of these

homes is a significant loss of living heritage for the different communities in the region.

Growth Without Planning and Stakeholder Partnerships



Bad FutureDevelopment without

planning and

regulations will entail

the loss of Chettinad’s

heritage. A specific

regional plan will be

necessary to outline the

possibilities of heritage-

based development

which would include

the following:

Definition of the

heritage zone; height

of the buildings;

alignments; types of

windows; materials

and colours.

Connectivity, mobility

and public facilities also

have to be considered

before-hand.



Looking to the Future




Improvement of Public Facilities

- Improvement of inter-city connections , public transport and mobility

- Improvement of public spaces while respecting their heritage value. This would include lighting and signage.

- Treatment of solid waste

- Water management, including traditional water system such as ooranis and erys

- Improvement of sanitation and sewerage system.

- Renewable energies, such as the production of solar energy, windmills for wind power and use of biomass fuels.

- Increasing the flow of visitors with an adapted train time table.

Creation of the Heritage House and the Heritage Centre

- Creation of a centre for raising awareness of the value of the regional heritage and providing relevant advice to the

local authorities and the local inhabitants

- Information centre for visitors

- Office to provide technical assistance to the District Authorities for the development of legal tools for heritage

protection .

Development of a Heritage-based Itinerary

- Development of a regional identity brand

- Architectural and urban trails, Temple trail, Handicraft Trail, etc

Make Chettinad a Destination



Creation of a Regional Plan and a Master Plan, an Inclusive Local Protection and Development Plan

- Regional level

- Local and village level

- Restoration and adaptive re-use

Development of Cultural Tourism

- Development of different types of accommodation for tourists

- Creation of tourist facilities such as restaurants, coffee shops and souvenir shops

Training for guides

- Development of cultural activities such as an interpretation centre and an eco-museum

- Promoting and introducing the Chettinad gourmet cuisine

- Highlight living heritage such as religious or village festivals.

Revival and Development of Chettinad Handicraft

- Encouraging initiatives for local know-how through micro credit schemes

- Promoting local handicrafts

- Creation of a centre for training and production of handicrafts and applied arts

- Creation of a centre for international exchange



Looking to the FutureGuiding Principles



The Objectives of the Tourism Development Plan should be

� To support the initiatives of cultural tourism which are respectful of the natural and built environment, in particular

the aesthetic, historical and architectural value of the buildings.

� To consider and respect the local population and invite their participation in the development and implementation of tourism

projects (creating jobs for the local population under fair working conditions with improved health and social security).

� To promote the adoption of the 1995 Charter on Sustainable Development and the Charter for Sustainable Tourism,

drawn up by the WTO to the local population and to tourism professionals and the authorities. This can be achieve

by educating the personnel on the environmental aspects and their role with respect to this; satisfying the expectations

of clients and obtaining their loyalty and support by providing information and educating them on the environmental

aspects of the charter; saving and/or recycling resources by putting the necessary systems into place, using local

natural resources, where possible, for raw materials and organic food, etc.

� To create a resource centre for monitoring and mitigating the impact of tourism on the environment and humans

in this fragile context.

� To spread awareness of the region throughout India and abroad, to organize visits, conferences and any other

programmes to promote the region.



Chettinad Heritage-Based Development ProjectFirst Phase

A plan for the protection of the area will be created and tools will be put into place for developing and protecting the

site. This will involve the creation of a Heritage House and a Heritage Centre housed in a restored palace and equipped

with a multi-disciplinary team who are entrusted with the task of studying and promoting the site :

� A plan for the protection of the area

� The creation of a Heritage House in a restored heritage building in Kottaiyur

� The creation of a Heritage Centre in a restored heritage building in Kottaiyur

� The creation of an Interpretation Centre in the old Chettinad train station

Second Phase

A larger development project will be implemented. This will involve the creation of:

� An Ecomuseum

� A Centre for Training and Production of Handicrafts and Applied Arts

� A Centre for International Exchange

With the purpose of finding synergies between creativity and the conservation of heritage; the development of cultural

tourism; and to serve as a reference for local population and visitors.

Looking to the FutureAction Plan






Constitution of a Chettinad Heritage HouseThe Chettinad Heritage House is a multidisciplinary team of national and international architects, planners, lawyers

and mediators whose role will be to build awareness amongst the population and the local and federal authorities,

concerning the protection of the site. This will provide a platform for exchanging information and undertaking joint

initiatives. The team of experts will give technical and legal advice and will suggest solutions for adapting the houses

to standards of modern comfort and to new functions where appropriate in order to facilitate their continued

maintenance.

The Heritage House Expert Team will also undertake an inventory of the built up area and the water and drainage

systems, as well as a qualitative study of the natural areas and the houses, temples and villages. This will be with the

aim of devising a comprehensive strategy for the conservation of the site through incentives and regulations. This will

include the following: A conservation plan, a regional development plan, plans for tourism, suggestions for legislation,

rules and regulations. This will be subject to the approval of the District Collectors, the various Panchayats (village

councils) and the inhabitants. The team will prepare the dossiers for classifying the site at different levels: national,

federal and international.

The Heritage House Expert Team will also receive researchers and residential artists and will publicize their work and

will contribute to the plan through exhibitions and publications. It will propose and explore the feasibility of future

development projects in science, education and tourism. To do this a research centre, offices, a library and lodging

facilities may be created.

Action Plan



The School in the old Alagappa Chettiar house in Kottaiyur proposed for conversion into the office of the Chettinad Heritage House Expert Team




Creation of a Heritage CentreThe selected heritage building will house the Heritage

Centre open to visitors from home and overseas and will

offer services and utilities such as cafeteria-restaurant,

handicraft shop, book shop as well as practical and cultural

information. It will also offer site plan, conferences, shows,

demonstrations of skills, workshops for adults and children

and temporary exhibitions (for two or three years following

themes such as handicrafts, history, customs and way of

life, natural and built heritage). It will undertake medium

term projects, namely an eco-museum, centre for training

and production of handicrafts and applied art and will

also function as a centre for international exchanges.

Creation of an Interpretation Centrein the Old Chettinad Train StationBuildingThe regeneration of the old train station, the gateway to

Chettinad to serve as an interpretation and information

centre for visitors, will also be a key tool for sensitizing

and disseminating practical information. Panels produced

by the university partnerships and the Heritage House will

be displayed in the old restored building.

Heritage Building in Kottaiyur to be converted into the ChettinadHeritage House and Heritage Centre

Heritage building at the Chettinad train station to be converted intoInterpretation Centre

Action Plan



The old Chettinad train station heritage building




Elaboration of a Protection and Development PlanCollection of Data� Information on existing development projects undertaken in the proposed heritage zone of the Chettinad Region;

� Historical knowledge (books, bibliographies, iconographies…)

� Survey materials (cartography; government survey reports, archeological maps, geographical atlas; national

database…) in collaboration with Government departments such as the Departments for Cultural Affairs,

Environment, Archives, Water and Forest…

Identification and Analysis of the Existing HeritageOn the basis of a survey of the territory and in close collaboration with the district and municipal authorities and

heritage conservation architects, a team of architects and urban planners will identify the heritage elements, built or

otherwise, old or new, extraordinary or mediocre, homogenous or heterogeneous, that are necessary to understand

the evolution of the sites. The work will involve the analysis of constructed areas and other lands, urban structure and

architectural features to serve as a basis for a heritage-based urban planning.

Proposal for Future Orientations Based on the analysis and the diagnosis and taking into account all the stakes, the working group, the Technical Cell,

the Heritage Committee and the Heritage House Expert Team will put forth proposals for future planning which will be

presented to local bodies and local inhabitants detailing the objectives to be met, defining the limits of the sector to

be preserved in the Chettinad territory with a broad overview of the rules. These proposals will take into account all

development plans for the entire sector.

Action Plan



Drawing up and Handing over the Final DocumentsA report giving the reasons for creating protected heritage zones and the objectives will be presented along with an

overview of the historical, geographical, urban, architectural and landscape features of Chettinad territory. Draft regulations

made up of recommendations and prescriptions and a graphical document showing the boundaries of the zone will be

presented.

Example of a Sector Protection Plan

for the City of Chinon (Region Centre,

France) showing:

Historic momuments;

Buildings to be protected;

Buildings to be restored;

Buildings of no heritage value;

Buildings to be demolished;

Natural zone to be protected.




The Ecomuseum:Preserving and Displaying a Representative CollectionThe collection of art and ethnographical objects will be presented more effectively. This collection will form the basis

of educational exhibitions for the public, tourists and students, tracing the history, traditions and specific urban

planning techniques of Chettinad within the larger context of South India and Southeast Asia, since Chettinad’s

history is so closely linked to the major geo-political changes in this part of the globe.

Objectives� Constitution of a collection of art and ethnographical objects that serve as a reference for Chettinad’s

heritage.

� Conservation and restoration of the existing architectural heritage.

� Presentation of an educational exhibition to the public suitable for both local inhabitants, tourists and

academicians .

� Spreading knowledge and awareness of this heritage through the development of cultural tourism.

� Creation of archives for the use of the local population and interested parties.

� Resource centre for those involved in the global project

� An important link for promoting the production of handicrafts. Visitors will visit the workshops where the handicraft

will be on sale.

� A cultural centre organizing programmes on the museum premises, such as the dances of South India, public

readings by Indian authors, exhibitions of the work of the in-house artists, etc.



Example of exhibits: Baskets, kottans, various containers, vessel at Rm. Rm. Foundation in Kanadukathan

Exhibition ThemesHistory

- The Nagarathar Chettiars, origin and legends- The Nagarathar Chettiars, a community of merchantsin pre-colonial India

- The Nagarathar Chettiars, the Zenith of Chettinad powerand influence

- The Nagarathar Chettiars today Territory- Chettinadu, clans and temples- Chettinadu, urban planning, water management,villages consisting of palatial homes

Way of life and traditions

Types of traditional architecture and external influences Familystructure and rites from birth to death,anniversaries, etc.

Local arts and crafts in Chettinad: Athangudi tiles;Chettinad plaster, frescoes; textiles: silk, cotton; basketwork; wood carving; figurines and sculptures in terracotta;bronze work; gold and silver work, jewellery; stonesculptures; Tanjore paintings; concrete sculpturesImported objects: polished marble and granite; lacquerware from Burma; terracotta from China, Vietnam andBurma; ceramics from Japan and Great Britain; stained

glass; enamel vessels



2007 and 2008 Chettinad Heritage Studio-Programmes within the framework of international exchange between AnnaUniversity (Chennai) and School of Chaillot (Paris), with the collaboration of UNESCO and ArcHe-S


2007 and 2008 Chettinad Heritage Studio-Programmes withinthe framework of international exchange between Anna

University (Chennai) and School of Chaillot (Paris), with thecollaboration of UNESCO and ArcHe-S



The Centre for International ExchangeThe workshops to be offered by this Centre will aim to look at:

- Economic growth in the fragile context of heritage conservation.

- Diversity of cultural expression in the age of globalisation.

- Forging an alliance between design, science and crafts to ensure production that is respectful of the environment.

- The contribution of new technologies and new methods of financing in order to support very small companies.

The Centre for Training and Production of Handicrafts and Applied Arts:Starting a Virtuous CycleThe handicraft centre will ensure:

- Provision of training, particularly for women and youth, to give employment opporunities in the production units

and restoration sites. This would have the dual purpose of improving their standard of living and also preserving

the cultural heritage of the region.

- Creation of work for experienced artisans, thus helping the transfer of knowledge from generation to generation.

- Training in technical areas as well as in the fields of design, management, commercial techniques and new

technologies.

- Constant guidance for artisans to master the technical and theoretical aspects of their crafts through a permanent

support from the professionals of the Centre and the invited experts.

- Logistics of production and marketing.



Special thanks to the Students of Anna University:Usha Devi, Sujitha, Sivakumar, Sharanya R., Pavithra, Jayakumar, Askara Fahmin, Cchristina, Dinesh, Bivvya, Kiruthika, Neha, Ridhi, Bharathi,

Elizabeth, Karthik, Lakshmi, Prathikssa, Saritha, Dhileep, Greg, Janani, Rahdika, Sivabharathi, Suvetha, Aparna, CLBF, Gomathy, Ranjani, Shruti,

Valshnavi, Vidhya, Adithya, Anuradha, Apoorva, Prita, Raja, Sangeetha, Subhashini

ArcHe-S and Dept of Tourism, Tamil Nadu Government: 9

Anna University in collaboration with ArcHe-S 35; 57/61; 63/66; 72

City of Chinon

Sector Protection Plan Chinon: 85;89; 95; 101

ArcHe-S photos: Cover; 4/7; 11; 15; 21/56; 62/63; 65; 67/77; 80/81;

85/86; 88; 92; 95; 97/99; 103/104

ArcHe-S diagram: 10; 12; 79; 87; 97;

Mr. Abby Philip, ArcHe-S: 48/49

Mr. S. Mudhiah: 24

Mr. V. Muthuraman: 37

Unknown

Old photo of Chettiars: 13; 16

Ms. Marie Kindel 14; 18/19

Maps:

Credit :



Revive Chettinad Heritage Project is supported by


United Nations Education, Scientificand Cultural Organization (UNESCO)B5/29 Safdarjung EnclaveNew Delhi 110 029INDIAPhone : +91-11-2671 3000Email: [email protected]: www.unesco.org/newdelhi

The printing of the publication was supportedby LA MAISON DES INDES, FRANCE


mailto:[email protected]



http://www.unesco.org/newdelhi


