Madras High Court, Chennai
Chennai (formerly known as Madras) is India’s one of the oldest metropolitan cities located on the banks of Bay of Bengal. Spread in the area of surpassing 400 square kilometers, the city is very modern but deeply rooted in its traditions and beliefs. Although to a newcomer, the heat and noises of Chennai might seem a bit overwhelming. But with time, the city grows on you. One of the prime centers for artistic traditions and culinary heritage, the trip to the city is a memorable affair.The city is adorned with several iconic heritage buildings like Government Museum, St. Thomas Mount, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Madras High Court in Chennai. These iconic landmarks introduce you to the real beauty of this stunning metropolis, and its people who are warm and welcoming.
This write up is dedicated to uncovering one such building, the Chennai High Court. Built in 1892, this high court has witnessed some of the most important and historical verdicts which might have changed the course country.
A Brief Idea about the Madras High Court
The Madras High Court, Chennai is one of the earliest judicial complexes of the country. According to historical records, the orders for building this high court were issued by the Queen Victoria of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. It is the largest court of Tamil Nadu and exercises jurisdiction over the entire state and the union territory of Puducherry. Spread in the area of 107 acres, it is a huge court complex.Interestingly, only two other high courts in India located in Mumbai and Kolkata were built during that era. After India’s independence, the status of these courts was acknowledged by the new constitution of the country. The inspiring motto – Satyameva Jayate (truth alone triumphs) – showcases the ideology of the institution.
The Architecture of the High Court
Built-in Indo-Saracenic style, the court complex represents some of the classic features of Indian architectural style with few European elements. A popular form of architecture back in the day, the British architects and engineers were inspired Indian monuments and palaces to create this stunning fusion of architecture.Chennai is an important colonial hub that witnessed some of the grandest public buildings being built in this style. The Madras High Court in Chennai was one of those buildings. Initially, the government architect / designer, J. W. Brassington, created a plan for a building with eleven courthouses. Among them, six were reserved for the High Court, and rest were delegated to Small Causes Court and City Civil Court. Later on, an additional building for the lawyers was added to the court's structure. Additionally, a walkway on the first floor was built to connect these two structures.
The court complex had an old standalone 125-feet tall lighthouse. To complement the structure, the architect added a 142-feet-high dioptric light to the main tower of the courthouse. Apart from that, the main complex has stained glass window panels and painted ceilings. These fixtures are beautiful and add a dash of color to this otherwise serious courthouse.
Unknown Facts about Madras High Court
1. As per Indian traditions, each landmark must have a sentinel deity. Interestingly, the Madras High Court, Chennai has not one – but two of those.2. The High Court complex houses a maximum number of courtrooms in Asia.
3. Moto of Madras High Court Satyameva Jayate (truth alone triumphs) is taken from hymn Mundaka Upanishad.
4. Till 2016, the given court complex was known as Madras High Court. Post-2016, a bill was passed in the state legislature for renaming the court to Chennai High Court. However, the verdict for the bill is pending verdict.
What’s Next?
The entire Madras High Court, Chennai tour could take close to three hours. For the rest of the day, you can either relax at your hotel or head towards these iconic landmarks of Chennai• Marina Beach
One of the top things to do in Chennai is visiting the unending Marina Beach. One of the prime locations of the city, the 13 km coastline of the beach is usually the favorite spot among locals as well as tourists. Relax at the soft sand or take a dip in the ocean – just go with the flow.• Relaxing at Elliot Beach
Another popular beach of Chennai, it is a secluded haven of the city. Less crowded than Marina Beach, this seashore is well-known for its tranquil surroundings.• Stone temples of Mamallapuram
The ancient temple complex of Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the 7th century. This complex houses one of the largest rock-cut reliefs in Asia, Arjuna’s Penance.• Exploring Mylapore and its old temples
One of the oldest localities of Chennai, Mylapore houses some of the stunning temples of the region. Among them, the Kapaleeshwarar temple is probably the oldest in the city.Chennai is a potpourri of emotions, noises, and people. But the city has its charm that grows on its visitors.