The best laid plans of mice and men..

and wanna-be-bloggers!

The plan was simple: work mornings and my customary long hours at night, leaving ample time in the late afternoon and evening to explore Chennai.

I am ashamed to admit that I took Chennai for granted. Sure, I’ve visited Mahabalipuram (affectionately known as Mahabs) and Vandalur Zoo, both on school trips. My recollection of these trips is mostly filled with the laughter and chatter unique to a group of 'convent girls'. I do remember jumping from one of the rocks—we have a great shot of that moment. Not an easy feat considering it predated the days of smartphones with their unlimited digital photography.

Moore Market remains just a faint memory, something about buying plants for our fish tank.

The one trip to the museum with my grandfather was memorable. I wonder if my love for museums was sparked by that trip. Museums, art galleries, and well-stocked libraries are among the most glorious things in life!

However, I have to admit that my memories of the fascinating exhibits in the museum are not as strong as my memory of the channa masala my mother packed for us that day as a snack. She is a great cook, and while her channa masala was usually good, that day it was extraordinary. It was spicy hot, and even today, I can remember just how amazing it tasted!

Marina Beach on the other hand was a frequent haunt, with fond memories of evenings and many afternoons spent on its shore.

The cool breezes, the chill of the water, and the fun splashing around with cousins were the best part of our childhood days.

By the beach

We’d emerge from the water, soaked, and head to the food vendors at the front of the sands.

I still crave the sundal in paper cones, the hot and delicious bhajis, and the incredible sugarcane juice. Those days are gone! I've searched for these treats in many places, only to be disappointed. Whether at bhavans, tea shops, or five-star hotels, the offerings are pale imitations of the real thing.

But I digress. Back to my agenda. I was determined to experience Chennai properly.

Naturally, one must start with a list, and so I did. I searched online and compiled a surprisingly diverse set of attractions. I reluctantly whittled the list down to just as many as I could visit in one day. While I was keen to make up for lost time, I also wanted to spend as much time as I could with my parents.

My final list came down to:

• Fort St. George (founded in 1639)

• St. Mary's Church (est. 1680)

• Government Museum (it would be my second visit to the second oldest museum in India!)

• Kapaleeshwarar Temple (built in the 7th century A.D.!!)
  

How many do you think I managed?

To be continued..