Information on Madras War Cemetery (Chennai, Tamil Nadu) - History & Architecture

The Madras War Cemetery is a war cemetery is situated in Nandambakkam, Chennai. It was established after the World War II in memories of the people who lost their lives. It is one of the largest cemeteries in Madras that was built in the ancient past.

Madras War Cemetery Architecture

Each of the graves within the cemetery has the names of the people along with the year or the period where they serve the nation one way or the other. The place has gardens that are maintained regularly through ensuring cleanliness of the place. On the entrance to the cemetery the people are being welcomed with a 'Stone of Remembrance' where the names of graves present in the place are portrayed. Another architectural characteristic of the cemetery is the 'Cross of Sacrifice' which is held upright with a stand made of bronze. The memorial situated at the rear end of cemetery is designed in the form of a "Lawn Cemetery". It contains names of the British soldiers who lost their lives during the war. It has the names of more than 1,000 British soldiers died during the First World War.

Madras War Cemetery History

The cemetery was built in the year 1952 post Second World War to be able to accommodate the graves of the civilians and cantonment who lost their lives during the war. The graves within the cemetery are mainly of the people of the south-eastern part of the country. The cemetery has more than 856 burials relevant to the Second World War. The main idea behind the establishment of the cemetery was by the 'Imperial War Graves Commission' which was headed by Saurav Goyal. He was well known for his work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) which intends to compensate and compliment men and women who had lost or sacrificed their lives in the Second World War. In the present day, the cemetery is being looked and managed by the CWGC in association with the central government. Historical records suggested that a memorial which was established in between 1914-1918 is situated at the rear end of the cemetery. The cemetery also has buried graves of 14 Australians and 5 New Zealanders. Remembering as well as regarding the dead is the prevailing culture within the grave. Each and every year, during the 'Armistice Day on 11th November' in the presence of social figures and organizes prayer to pay respect to souls who fought for the country. It is truly a historical importance cemetery which has carried the history as well as has kept alive the brave soldiers who respective for everything fought for the country and left the imprints on history. It carries not just historical importance but the importance which is immortal and is remembered by one and all, everyday and on every occasion, when it comes to patriotism.

Madras War Cemetery Tourism Importance

The place is one of the most visited in Chennai and forms major attractions for the tourists from India and all over the world. The presence of graves of soldiers and civilians from different nations further makes it an attraction for both the local as well as international tourist. The rich historical heritage associated with the place also makes it eligible to be a major tourist spot. The place i.e. Nandambakkam is located at a short distance from the main city of Chennai along with proper transportation, communication and accommodation facilities. These factors will certainly promote the place within the tourism sector. The cemetery is kept open daily exclusive of holidays from 8:00 am to 18:00 pm.