People commuting on Kamarajar Salai cannot miss the majestic red building that houses offices of Public Works Department. Constructed in Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, it was part of Chepauk Palace, which was originally the official residence of the Nawabs of Carnatic/Arcot.
Chennai got one of its iconic heritage structures when Muhammed Ali Wallajah, Nawab of Carnatic/Arcot (VIII), decided to build a palatial palace for his successors on Marina in the later half of the 18th Century. It was in 1764 that Nawab Wallajah wanted to build a palace around Fort St. George. However, he had to abandon his plans owing to lack of space. Spread over an area of 117 acres, the palace, which was designed by architect Paul Benfield, was completed in 1768. Kalas Mahal, which was recently restored to its original glory, was the official residence of the Nawabs from 1768 to 1855. The Chepauk Palace comprises two blocks — Kalas Mahal and Humayun Mahal. The PWD has now initiated steps to restore the Humayun Mahal. Kalas Mahal is all set to house National Green Tribunal, Southern Bench.
According to the Prince of Arcot, Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, Nawab Wallajah was a secular-minded ruler and donated lands for religious and educational purposes. The Sri Kapaleeswarar temple tank, Mylapore was one of Nawab’s contributions. Several mosques, including Wallajah Big Mosque in Triplicane, that date back to two centuries ago were also built during the Nawab’s rule.
