Doesn’t the name Nandambakkam echo with tales of trade and transformation? Nandambakkam stands as a testament to Chennai’s evolving landscape. It is a suburb with a rich history. We’ll explore its past and present.
Nandambakkam is strategically located 13 kilometers southwest of Chennai. It sits on the Mount-Poonamallee Road. Alandur and St Thomas Mount border it to the east. Manapakkam lies to the west. Ramapuram is to the north and northwest. Pallavaram is to the south. The township stretches from the Madras War Cemetery to the Adyar River.
Nandambakkam’s story stretches back to ancient times. A sage named Bringi Rishi once lived on a nearby hill. It was known as Bringi Malai. The name later changed to Parangi Malai. Today it is called St. Thomas Mount. Legend says Lord Rama visited Bringi Rishi. The sage created a garden for Rama’s comfort. This garden became Nandhavanam. That name evolved into Nandambakkam. The neighboring place is Ramapuram. It is said to be named after Lord Rama.
Since 1947 Nandambakkam was part of the Chingleput district. In 1948, a plan emerged to train tappers in hand weaving. Nandambakkam’s growth accelerated post-independence. The 1950s and 60s saw social welfare schemes launched. In 1952, the Madras War Cemetery was built.
Chief Minister K. Kamaraj proposed a surgical instruments factory. It was a collaboration with Russia. The Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited undertook this project. The factory was inaugurated on September 1, 1965. It cost Rs. 52.5 million. It was expected to produce 2.5 million instruments. This plant was later named IDPL. Sadly production stopped in 1994. A large part of the factory closed.
In January 2001, the Chennai Trade Centre opened in Nandambakkam. This was the India Trade Promotion Organisation’s first fair infrastructure outside Delhi. It spans 25 acres. It is a joint venture of ITPO and TIDCO. It was designed to host trade fairs.
Nandambakkam has a diverse population. As of 2001, it had 9,093 residents. Males made up 51%. Females made up 49%. The literacy rate was 81%. This was higher than the national average. Male literacy was 85%. Female literacy was 77%.
Today, Nandambakkam stands as a blend of history and progress. It links its past to the present. It is a vibrant suburb of Chennai. It continues to evolve. It contributes to the city’s dynamic spirit. Its landmarks like the Chennai Trade Centre. They showcase its importance in trade and industry.