Date: January 15, 2025
At Locally Lelo, we’ve always believed that history comes alive through the stories embedded in the walls of our heritage. This year, the Chettinad Heritage and Cultural Festival offered us the chance to see that belief in action. From January 15 to January 20, the festival celebrated the rich legacy of the Chettiar community’s iconic mansions, transforming them from forgotten relics into vibrant cultural landmarks.
The mansions of Chettinad, located in the southern region of Tamil Nadu, represent a unique architectural blend of Indian and European styles. Built by the Chettiar merchant families between the 19th and 20th centuries, these structures once served as symbols of prosperity, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange. But over time, many fell into disrepair. Seeing them restored—every carved teak door, every Athangudi-tiled floor, every intricately designed courtyard—filled us with a deep sense of pride and connection.
During the festival, we walked through halls that felt alive again, not only with the restored grandeur of the architecture but also with the spirit of the Chettinad community. Traditional music and dance performances echoed in these spaces, and local artisans showcased their talents, reminding us of the skill and artistry that have been passed down for generations. We attended guided tours where storytellers brought the history of these mansions to life, weaving tales of trade routes, family legacies, and the bustling life that once defined this region.
What made this event especially touching for us at Locally Lelo was seeing how the festival inspired the local community. By spotlighting these mansions as heritage hotels, the festival not only preserved their beauty but also created new economic opportunities. Local businesses thrived, artisans found new audiences, and visitors from across India and beyond came to appreciate the region’s cultural richness.
As we reflected on our time at the Chettinad Heritage and Cultural Festival, we felt an overwhelming gratitude for those who are working tirelessly to ensure that India’s past is not lost but celebrated. Events like this remind us why we started Locally Lelo: to share the hidden treasures of our land, to keep our heritage alive, and to show the world that history is not something to be studied in books—it’s something to be experienced, felt, and cherished.
For us, Chettinad’s revitalized mansions are not just buildings; they are living storytellers, connecting us to our roots and inspiring us to continue sharing the timeless beauty of India with the world.
