Page 618 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - India

616  SOUTH INDIA

Chettiar Mansions

The arid region encompassing the towns of Karaikudi, Devakottai and their
neighbouring villages, collectively known as Chettinad, is distinguished by large
ornate mansions which are the ancestral homes of the Chettiars, Tamil Nadu’s rich
merchant community. Like the Marwaris of Shekhavati (see pp376–7), the Chettiars
were astute businessmen who travelled far to make their fortunes. The wealth
they acquired in Burma, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Vietnam was used to build these
elaborate mansions. Today, the Chettiars are prominent bankers and industrialists,
based in Chennai and Bengaluru.
Chettiar Houses
Built in the early 20th century, these houses
reflect the social, ritual and kinship needs of
the community, as well as its economic status.
Though now unoccupied for most of the year,
they are still used for family celebrations.

The splendid Chettinad Palace, Kanadukathan

A long verandah with wooden pillars leads
to a series of open courtyards, surrounded by
rooms to accommodate the growing family.

The first pillared hall, where each pillar is made
from an entire tree trunk of Burma teak, is reserved
for the men of the house to receive guests and
conduct business.

The formal reception room has marble floors,
stained-glass windows, painted cornices, teak
and rosewood furniture and ornate chandeliers.

Elaborate marble floors, well-polished doorways, carved
wooden beams, granite pillars, and other decorative elements Intricately carved
in a Chettiar house display the skills of the Tamil craftsmen. wooden doorway

616-617_EW_India.indd 616 26/04/17 11:49 am
Eyewitness Travel LAYERS PRINTED:
Catalogue template “UK” LAYER
(Source v2.6)
Date 12th July 2013
Size 125mm x 217mm