Chennai: After years of restoration work, Victoria Public Hall in Chennai is now open for public viewing. Restored at a cost of ₹32.62 crore, the heritage
structure has been revived without altering its original design, officials said, marking a significant moment for the city’s cultural landscape. Visitors can book their visit free of cost through the Greater Chennai Corporation’s website. Officials have made it clear that entry will be strictly through prior online booking, with no walk-ins allowed.
Timed Entry, Limited Numbers
Guided tours will begin at 8.30 am and conclude at 6.30 pm, with visitor slots staggered every 1.5 hours. To protect the fragile structure, only 60 visitors will be allowed per slot.Officials explained that several parts of the building, including the wooden staircases, are too delicate to bear heavy crowds. “Since we have not altered the original structure, entry has been restricted to avoid stress on the building,” an official from the buildings department said.
The Victoria Public Hall in #Chennai is a historic monument with rich heritage and stunning architecture. #GCC has accelerated restoration works to rejuvenate its beauty and significance.
Pour your ideas for the type of museum that could be established here.#ChennaiCorporation pic.twitter.com/r856pFrnfk— Greater Chennai Corporation (@chennaicorp) February 14, 2024
Auditorium Opens, But With Conditions
The hall’s auditorium has also been opened to the public, though its use will be carefully regulated, as per a TOI report. Only cultural and public events will be permitted, and organisers will need prior approval after clearly stating the purpose of their programme in writing.
Authorities said the focus is on ensuring the venue remains a cultural space rather than a commercial one.
The restored hall was inaugurated by M K Stalin on Tuesday. Originally built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee, the building is widely regarded as one of Chennai’s most important architectural and cultural landmarks.
Following the restoration, the hall has been transformed into a public cultural space housing a museum and a performance arena. Exhibits on the ground floor document the hall’s patrons, architects and contractors, while also showcasing speeches delivered at the venue, including those of Justice Party leaders, along with the city’s theatre, cinema and sports history.
