CHENNAI: O ver 800 music lovers and patrons of Tamil art, food and culture gathered at the Vadapalani Metro station this weekend to watch the CMRL Mahal Isai Thiruvizha 2017.
The celebration, which was conducted in the form of a food festival in 2016 at St Thomas Mount station, has taken a leap this year and garnered more crowd and reception.
Vinodha, a college student, said, “I commute using the metro every day and I happened to come across this event. It has been a nice experience to splurge on food, music and accessories!”
The music festival featured renowned Ghatam artist Vikku Uma Shankar and party, who performed a fusion concert on the first day, followed by a Tamil Isai concert by vocalist Nithyashree Mahadevan on the second day. “It is heartwarming to see so many people watching the programme amid all that’s happening.
This place is filled with positive vibes and I am extremely happy,” said the Kalaimamai recipient who performed in front of an enthusiastic crowd. “We have been constantly promoting Tamil culture and this is another such event, which pays tribute to our heritage. We have brought in the best of our cuisine and music for namma makkal,” said a member of the organising-committee.
From tender coconut water to kolluvadai and Karaikudi food, the stalls excited the taste buds of the crowd. “When we were young, aerated beverages were considered harmful. We used to drink in panagam, butter milk and elaneer. It’s nice to see CMRL promoting these drinks…younger generation should not shun these products,” said 50-year-old Muthu Pandian.
Amaravathy, Karaikudi foods, Vakula Jute bags, Aavin, Colour Chennai, Kulfi zone, Bakers Code and Sri Magaliyar self-help group had stalls at the festival.