Didn’t you know that Chengalpattu is called the Gateway of Chennai? I will tell you the story of Chengalpattu. This town is rich in history and natural beauty. Chengalpattu is located 56 kilometers south of Chennai. Its name comes from the red lilies that once grew here. These lilies were called chenkazhuneer poo.
Chengalpattu’s story stretches back to the early Chola dynasty. That was in the 2nd century BCE. The town became a strategic spot. The Vijayanagar kings built a fort here in the 16th century. Muslim rulers from Golconda captured it around 1640. In 1752, the British, led by General Robert Clive, seized Chengalpattu.
The fort was surrounded by swamps and a lake. This made it hard to attack. It became very useful to the British during wars with Hyder Ali of Mysore. People from nearby areas sought shelter in the fort during those conflicts.
By 1900, Chengalpattu was a busy place. It was known for making pottery and trading rice. The town had cotton and silk weaving. There were also tanneries and indigo dyeing. Salt was made along the coast.
After India gained independence, Chengalpattu was part of the Kancheepuram district. It served as the headquarters until 1969. Then, the headquarters moved to Kancheepuram town. Chengalpattu district was formed in 2019. It was carved out of Kancheepuram district.
The Palar River flows through Chengalpattu for 54 kilometers. The district has a coastline of 57 kilometers. Agriculture is very important here. Rice is the main crop. Farmers also grow sugarcane and groundnuts. You can also find vegetables and watermelons.
Today, Chengalpattu is a growing town. It has many industries. Siruseri SIPCOT IT Park is one of Asia’s largest IT parks and is located here. Maraimalai Nagar is known for automobile manufacturing. Several historic sites and temples are located around Chengalpattu. These include the Pallava temples at Mamallapuram. You can also visit the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. It is the oldest water bird sanctuary in India. Another great spot is Kolavai Lake. It is home to many migratory birds.
Chengalpattu connects Chennai to other parts of Tamil Nadu. The Chennai Airport is close by. Chengalpattu Railway Station is a major junction. Buses also connect Chengalpattu to nearby cities. So, as you leave Chengalpattu, remember its rich past. It was a town of kings, battles, and trade. Now, it is a blend of history and progress.