The Banqueting Hall Madras, 1925 Postcard
An old 1925 photo postcard of the Banqueting Hall in Madras (Chennai). The Banqueting Hall – now Rajaji Hall – was built by John Goldingham. Once the years advanced, the threat to Madras by the French, Portuguese, and local chieftains diminished. The progress of the city went beyond the defensive walls of Fort St George.
One of the important constructions was the Banqueting Hall on Mount Road. It was commissioned on the orders of the Governor of Madras Edward Clive (son of Robert Clive). Completed in 1802 and inaugurated with a grand ball. This huge edifice with a Greek temple look-alike was built in commemoration of the British success in the 4th Anglo-Mysore War in 1799.
Built with open terraces all around and a narrow flight of steps. But after much remodeling between 1875 to 1895 the steps were broadened, arcaded verandahs added, and so on. After India’s independence, the hall was named Rajaji Hall in honor of C. Rajagopalachari, the first Governor General of India.
Did you know- John Goldingham was an astronomer and engineer with the East India Company.
From the collection- Raja Ravi Varma Paintings Depicted In Postcards., Cavalcade of Viceroy Lord Curzon India, Photo 1903., Aerial View of Bombay Harbour & Docks – Old Print 1931., Old Book 1898-The Romance Of Glass-Making.
