It’s a feature Chennai has always flaunted with pride. And now, it has got international recognition. The city has been included in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, congratulating the city: “Chennai’s contribution to our rich culture is precious. This is a proud moment for India.”

A total of 64 cities from 44 countries have joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, the organisation’s website said.

“They join a network at the frontline of UNESCO’s efforts to foster innovation and creativity as key drivers for a more sustainable and inclusive urban development,” it stated.

Gastronomy, music, crafts and folk art, media arts, design, film and literature are the seven fields of creativity highlighted by the network, which now has a total of 180 cities in 72 countries.

Jaipur and Varanasi are the other Indian cities that feature on the list.

Chief Minister thanks PM

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, in a statement, said “the people of Chennai love their music and it is a part of their culture and tradition”. He thanked Mr. Modi for “congratulating the people of Chennai for this unique distinction.”

Carnatic vocalist Bombay Jayashri said, “This truly is a moment to remember each and every artiste of the varied forms who have laid the bricks to build this musical empire. A haven for the classical music, popular music, music for dance and theatre and folk, we revel in the arts.”

Ghatam vidwan ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram said the city and its sabhas had played a very important role in bringing together Carnatic musicians from all over the country and abroad. “In the beginning, there were very few sabhas, but now, there are many. And even the very small ones help in propagating Carnatic music. The December music season is something very unique to this city and even for persons from other countries; it is a matter of pride to perform during it,” he said.

Tamil Development Minister Ma Foi K. Pandiarajan said, “Chennai, as a cultural capital of India, is built on its music and dance culture. We are delighted that UNESCO has recognised it.”

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Chennai / by Special Correspondent / Chennai – November 09th, 2017