Culture of Chennai is very rich and unique in all aspects. Chennai is popularly called as the gateway to the south. Capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is elegant and civilized city. It has a great history behind the evolution of this great culture. Chennai is a cosmopolitan city where people of various caste, creeds and classes live in perfect harmony. Being an important industrial and commercial capital, it attracts large number of people from all over India. Distinct beliefs, values and idea contribute to the culture of the city. This mélange of various cultures develop the character of the city.

Despite being a very progressive city, rich religious traditions are soaked deep into the society. These religious activities are the integral and important part of lifestyle in Chennai. Even the most humble householder welcomes you with traditional hospitality for which Chennai is renowned. Festivals are the times to enjoy in Chennai as all the festivals are celebrated with much pomp and show. People have great faith and devotion in religion and religious rites which is evident from the great celebrations. Another evidence of their religious devotion is the presence of large number of huge temples. People visit temples regularly and you can see many people with holy mark on their foreheads.

Chennai has preserved great forms of art, inherited from its history. You can see dance and music schools in every other corner of the city. Chennai culture can be best understood when you discover its various art forms. These art forms include dance, music, literature, cinema and sculpture. You will not have opportunity to have this large repertoire of art forms except in Chennai.

There are many cultural centers in Chennai. Temples in Chennai are great patron of its various art forms. There are cultural trusts in Chennai such as the Bharat Kalachar which is leader among others to keep the Chennai culture alive. Another place is the Y.G.P. Auditorium where renowned artists give their performances. Bharatnatyam is the most popular dance form there and is world known for its richness. You can enjoy culture of the city if you spend time at Chennai theatre, Tamil and English, dance and music recitals.

Among the various Chennai cultural attractions, National Art Gallery, Art World Gallery, Mozhi, theatres and various temples are important. Chennai Travel Guide brings you more interesting information about this great city.