Chennai, India

Red-bricked building with tall clock tower Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station in Chennai, India.

Quick Facts

Founded: A.D. 1640
Population: 6,748,026
Area: 164 square miles
(426 square kilometers)
Main Industries: manufacturing, information technology and software
Relationship History: 2008

Relationship with San Antonio

2009 Sister City Ordinance (PDF)

Overview

Throughout the world, the City of Chennai has been called the "Detroit of India" due to the presence of auto manufacturers Ford and Hyundai. At the same time, software exports have risen to all-time highs due to international exposure and technological capabilities.

Chennai has appeal to both business professionals and tourists from all over the world. Such attraction has led to a rise in the standard of living and major investment in the education sector.

Considered the most important cultural, economic and educational center of South India, Chennai is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative City of Music and a top destination for cultural visitors.

One of Chennai's cultural institutions is the Madras Music Academy, devoted to the music of the historical region of Karnataka. In 2017, Chennai was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network list for its rich musical tradition.

The city also has numerous training centers for classical Indian dance forms and hosts several dance festivals throughout the year. One of the most well-known sister city programs related to Chennai is the annual Diwali "Festival of Lights" in San Antonio.

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