The Times of India

In the 1980s, Elliot's Beach offered a tranquil escape with vendors, family picnics, and stunning sunsets. Seniors socialized, children played freely on immaculate sands, and shell collecting was a cherished morning ritual. This serene, less commercialized haven, once a quiet spot, soon transformed into a sought-after film shooting location, attracting crowds eager to spot stars.

Veeraraghavan Eri (Lake) in Chennai, a once 30-acre freshwater lake, has shrunk to 10 acres due to sewage, plastic waste, and encroachments. Despite a National Green Tribunal order and resident complaints, no action has been taken to stop sewage inflow. A 13.2 crore restoration proposal is awaiting commencement.

Malayalam cinema's evergreen star Prem Nazir, approaching his birth centenary, also made a significant mark in Tamil cinema with over 20 films in the late 1950s. His breakthrough came with 'Thai Pirandhaal Vazhi Pirakkum' in 1958, opening doors for him in Tamil productions seeking heroes beyond the established stars.

The evening drew an elegant mix of cultural patrons, cinema personalities, and P3Ps, including filmmaker Mani Ratnam and artist Parvathi Nayar.

Dignitaries like Dr Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti and Cleveland VV Sundaram were spotted at this event.

The Tamil Nadu police bomb disposal squad conducted searches at the Madras high court after an email threat claimed RDX bombs with cyanide would be detonated. The high-security zone, including the Chief Justice's chambers and judges' parking, was thoroughly searched. Authorities later confirmed the threat was a rumour.

DMDK has officially joined the DMK alliance, marking its first partnership with the party since its inception in 2005. General secretary Premallatha Vijayakant confirmed the decision after meeting with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Seat-sharing discussions are ongoing, with a Rajya Sabha seat anticipated for DMDK.

Despite meagre revenue trickling in, GCC managed to focus on newer areas of development such as commute, where the bus route roads dept saw a doubled allocation of Rs 725 crore.

Ancient rock paintings, over 2,300 years old, in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu remain vulnerable. Despite being declared a protected monument last year, the site lacks fencing and security. Local enthusiasts have campaigned for 15 years, but defacement continues due to easy access, with recent incidents of stones being arranged and graffiti appearing. Officials promise protection measures.