There is always a very highly distorted opinion about Chennai, the fourth largest city and the largest in South India.
Contrary to all public perception, it is not a conservative city, anymore.
The young -- particularly the IT crowd has already taken to the pubs and the eating joints like never before. KFC must be making roaring business. Otherwise, they cannot open so many outlets.
It is true that the city has some famous temples, and people do stick to their rituals. But by no stretch of imagination can that be the yardstick for branding the city as conservative.
The purchasing power of people has increased manifold, and the flats and apartments are now being sold for fancy prices like six crore rupees or even more. The flats are as modern as any, anywhere in India.
Just look at the way young people in colleges dress and behave. And if course, Chennai has the best college for commerce education in India. The best course in Visual Communication is also offered at the same college -- Loyola College.
New residential colonies are coming up everywhere. The so-called "conservative" or 'traditional' tag has to go. Every city has its own quota of problems. At least, Chennai is among the most safe cities in India, for women.
Those who still think that Chennai is conservative, come now and see it. Live in it for at least sometime. You are bound to change your opinion.
