Did you know that Purasawalkam, also known as Purasaiwakkam, is a residential and shopping hub in Chennai? It’s conveniently located near Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore railway stations. Let’s dive into the story of Purasawalkam.
The name “Purasai” originates from the Tamil tree “purasai maram”. Long ago, this area thrived with these trees. Another explanation involves stables. In Tamil, horses were called “puravi”. The area, once full of stables, was known as puravivakkam. Over time, it evolved into Purasaiwakkam. The Gangadeeshwarar temple stands as a testament to this history. The temple’s tank further reinforces this link.
Speaking of the Gangadeeshwarar temple, it is very famous. The Shiva Lingam inside remains perpetually wet. Even during droughts and intense summers, this wetness persists. It’s quite a unique phenomenon.
In 1799, a significant event occurred. John Underwood, an Assistant Surgeon with the British East India Company, established a hospital. It was in “Poorshewak”, now Purasawalkam. This hospital, the Native Infirmary, is considered India’s first dedicated to the poor.
Purasawalkam has seen many changes. Landmarks like Kellys Signal and Doveton Signal defined its boundaries. Once, prominent theatres like Motcham, Mekala, Abhirami, and Roxy thrived here. Sadly, they’ve all been demolished now.
Tana Street forms the heart of Purasawalkam. It is always bustling. You can find jewelry, fresh vegetables, clay pots, and pharmacies here. The street also hosts a vibrant grocery market. Textile showrooms abound.
The area also boasts several educational institutions. Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training and Madras Veterinary College are here. You’ll also find Madras Theological Seminary and many schools.
Purasawalkam’s rich history includes a blend of communities. Politicians, musicians, potters, and Anglo-Indians called this place home. The Anglo-Indian community once thrived near the churches and schools of Doveton.
Old houses on Vellala Street whisper stories of the past. Once, R.K. Narayan, the eminent author, was born here. Veteran politician K. Anbazhagan also resided here.
Tana Street looked very different in the 1960s. N. Paramasivam recalls it as a desolate stretch. It had dense tree cover. He walked home cautiously, watching out for drunkards on the dark road. Floods in 1971 brought waist-deep water to Tana Street’s bylanes.
Today, apartment complexes have replaced bungalows. P. Satyanarayanan remembers playing on Tana Street with his Anglo-Indian friends in the 1970s. A small “dhobi khana” near Kosapet reminds us of a waterbody that once existed here.
Purasawalkam continues to evolve. From its humble beginnings with “purasai maram” trees to its current status as a commercial and residential center, it remains a vital part of Chennai. The echoes of its past resonate through its streets and temples. Purasawalkam is a vibrant tapestry woven with history, culture, and community.