Madurai

Madurai is a major city in southern Tamil Nadu, India, located on the Vaigai River. It is the administrative capital of Madurai district and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with roots in the early Tamil dynasties and the Sangam era. It has a long-standing reputation as a center of learning, religion, and commerce.

The city is renowned for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an extensive temple complex dedicated to Meenakshi (Parvati) and Sundareswarar (Shiva). The complex features towering gopurams, a thousand-pillared hall, and extensive sculpture. It is a major pilgrimage site and a focal point of the Tamil devotional tradition. The Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, built in the 17th century, showcases a blend of architectural styles with tall columns and vast courtyards. Gandhi Memorial Museum preserves Gandhi-related artefacts and tells the history of India's freedom movement.

Madurai's economy includes traditional crafts, textile and handloom industries, flower markets—especially jasmine (Madurai Malli)—as well as modern trade and education services. The city serves as a commercial hub for southern Tamil Nadu. It is connected by road, rail, and has an international airport at Madurai, providing access to major Indian cities.

Cultural life includes the annual Chithirai Festival, one of the longest-running festival events in Tamil Nadu, featuring temple processions and cultural performances. The city also hosts educational institutions, hospitals, and media centers, making it a major urban center in the region.