Latest news with #Pongal
India.com
5 hours ago
- India.com
Travel Smart: Essential Budget Hacks For Exploring Chennai!
Even though the metropolitan city of Chennai, in Tamil Nadu, is known for its never-ending activities from historic temples and buildings to modern beaches and food courts, it does have the potential to pinch your pockets. But fret not. With adequate planning, you can truly appreciate everything Chennai has to offer without worrying about spending too much. Here are great budget traveling tips that allow you to discover the true essence of Chennai while simultaneously saving a good amount of money. Your Visit During the Off-Season During the winter months, the region from November to February has pleasant weather and is the peak tourist season for Chennai. If you are looking to save a few bucks, you should definitely look into the season between March and October where accommodation and travel costs are significantly lower. All in all, these months are less touristy and more local. Pro Tip: Utilize seasonal discounts for hotels and flights that may be available off-season. Pack Light:Summers can get hot in Chennai so make sure to bring light clothes along with plenty of sunscreen. Festivals:You can also try to plan your trip around other local festivals like Pongal or Navaratri that occur in January and October respectively so that you can indulge in cultural activities. Quick Facts: Chennai Summers reach as high as 40 degree celsius so ensure to stay hydrated. Hotel rates during off-season can go 30 to 50 percent lower than peak season rates. Pongal and other festivals are celebrated with traditional foods, kolams, and much more cultural fanfare. Affordable Accommodation Options You will find plenty of budget accommodation like guest houses, bed and breakfast, or hostels in Chennai. Stays under these categories are usually posted on booking sites such as Airbnb, hostelworld, and makemytrip. Also, quite a few inexpensive hotels provide price cuts for extended visits. Hostels: You can easily find OYO Rooms or FabHotels and other chain hotels that offer cozy and reasonably priced rooms. Budget Hotels: Staying in a house of a local family is not only culturally enriching, but it is usually cheaper than hotels as well. Homestays: Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking for inexpensive dorms Quick Facts: In Chennai, hostel dorms are available for as low as 400 INR per night. Budget hotels can cost somewhere between 800 to 1,500 INR a night. A homestay can go for 1,000-2,000 INR a night, most of the time with meals inclusive. Like a Local Chennai's public transport is not only affordable but also efficient and quite vast. Traveling by trains, buses, and share-autos helps you cut costs as compared to hiring a private vehicle or taking a cab. MTC Buses: The Metropolitan Transport Corporation's Bus Service – Almost every area of the city is covered by MTC buses and they are dirt cheap. Suburban Trains: When going to places such as Chengalpattu, Marina Beach, and St. Thomas Mount. Share Autos:The best option for covering short distances within the city when on a budget. Quick Facts: Starting fare for the MTC bus is 5 INR. 10 INR is all that is needed to buy a ticket for a suburban train and travel one way. Traveling share autos cost between INR 20 to 50. Budget-Friendly Food Do not worry if you are on a budget because Chennai is a food lover's dream. Savor the variety of food available including steaming idlis, mouthwatering biryani, crispy dosas, there is a lot to explore that is also light on the pocket. Street Food:Visit the beach and T. Nagar to enjoy sundal, bajji, and freshly cooked parottas from the street food stalls. Messes: Affordable and hearty South Indian meals can be enjoyed at Ratna Cafe and Murugan Idli Shop. Lunch Buffets: Some eateries provide low-priced lunch buffets which is great for trying out several cuisines at once. Quick Facts: At neighborhood cafes, every plate of idli-sambar sells for approximately 30-50 INR. Cheap restaurants serve full South Indian meals ( thali) for 100 – 200 INR. The prices of street food sundal and bajji are 20 -50 INR. Free and Low-Cost Attractions There are a lot of free or inexpensive places to visit in Chennai. It's perfect for temples, museums, and beach lovers. Beaches: Head to Marina Beach, as well as the second longest city beach in the world, or Elliot's Beach to unwind and enjoy. Temples:India boasts of stunning temples that define the culture, and the Kapaleeswarar and Parthasarathy temples in Chennai are no exception. It's a free site so don't forget to visit. Museums and Parks: Some budget friendly places to visit include the Government Museum as well as Semmozhi Poonga which charge a small fee. Quick Facts: Elliot's and Marina Beaches can be accessed for free Indian citizens only need to pay INR 15 to enter the museum. Children under 12 can enter Semmozhi Poonga for INR 10 and adults only need to pay 15. Smart Chennai's active street bazaars and markets are great for those looking to shop on a budget. With the proper knowledge, silk sarees, jewelry, and other souvenirs are sold at reasonable prices. T. Nagar: Best spot to find sarees, jewelries and other accessories at affordable Pondy Bazaar: A budgeted fashionista's paradise for clothes, bags and even shoes. George Town: Great for wholesale fabric shopping and other knick-knacks. Pro Tip:Always negotiate prices at street markets. Quick Facts: Kurtas and cotton dresses start from 300 – 500 rupees. You can find handmade jewelry for as cheap as 100 to 200 rupees. At T. Nagar, silk sarees are available starting from 1,000 rupees. on Souvenirs and Experiences You can spend less and still enjoy the true culture of the city by choosing souvenirs that are unique and inexpensive. Artisan Crafts: Terracotta jewelry, Tanjore Paintings, and pottery are things to look out for. Music and Dance: Attend free events or workshops for classical dance and music during the Margazhi festival (December-January). Local Snacks: Murukku, banana chips, and Mysore pak are some of the treats you can enjoy while in the city. Quick Facts: Terracotta Jewelry sets: INR 200-500. Entry to cultural performances during Margazhi is often free. Local Snacks: Between 50-100 per packet. Wrapping Up Chennai is a premier city for budget travelers due to its wonderful culture, welcoming vibe, and the delicious food. So long as you plan your trip wisely by reserving the flight ahead of time, utilizing buses and trains to get around the city, and eating and shopping in reasonably priced places, you will enjoy everything that the city has to offer without breaking the bank. What are you waiting for, pack your bags and go on an adventure of a lifetime to Chennai!
NDTV
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
A Jana Nayagan Update: First Glimpse Of Thalapathy Vijay's Final Film To Be Out On This Date
New Delhi: KVN Productions has officially announced that the first glimpse of Jana Nayagan, Thalapathy Vijay's final film, will be released at midnight on June 22, 2025, coinciding with the actor's birthday. What Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayan under KVN Productions, the film marks Vijay's farewell to cinema. Music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander. The makers have described Jana Nayagan as a tribute to Vijay's cinematic journey and legacy. Background The first-look poster, unveiled recently, shows Vijay in a powerful silhouette with his fist raised amid a crowd, accompanied by the caption, "A lion is always a lion & his first roar is incoming." A second poster features him taking a selfie with a cheering crowd. The film is scheduled for a global theatrical release on January 9, 2026, just ahead of Pongal and Makar Sankranti. Known as a prime window for Tamil cinema, the Pongal weekend has previously delivered several major hits, especially those led by Vijay. The global release will be handled in collaboration with Phars Film, with plans for extensive distribution to reach audiences worldwide. Jana Nayagan, meaning "The People's Leader," is expected to be a significant farewell project for one of Tamil cinema's most successful stars. The film is also part of KVN Productions' current slate, which includes upcoming projects like Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown Ups and Bad Good Ugly.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mamitha Baiju calls Thalapathy Vijay the coolest co-star as 'Jana Nayagan' shoot nears completion
Thalapathy 's last film as an actor, Jana Nayayan, is being made under the director of H. Vinoth. As Vijay is set to enter politics fully, this film has created huge expectations among fans. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The upcoming film is reportedly being developed as a story set against a political backdrop, social issues and emotional moments are said to play a prominent role in it. The film stars Baja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamita Baiju, Priyamani, Shruti Haasan, and Narain among others. Mamita Baiju on working with Thalapathy Vijay Actress Mamita Baiju has spoken about Vijay, and her comments are currently going viral on the internet. 'Vijay sir is very punctual. He always reaches the sets before time. He is a very easy-going and calm person,' he said. She also shared with enthusiasm, 'No matter what happens on the set of Jana Nayagan, Vijay sir handles it with a very cool mind. I would talk to him about many things. But he would end up saying 'Mmm' and 'Haa',' shared while speaking with JFW. These small incidents of Mamitha Baiju with Vijay are being shared widely on social media as they replicate the actor's simple and down-to-earth side. A much-awaited 'Jana Nayagan' update to drop on Vijay's birthday Vijay and Pooja Hegde have already completed filming for their portions in 'Jana Nayagan', and the mega-budget drama nearing completion as director H Vinoth is busy filming the patch-up portions. A mega update from 'Jana Nayagan' is anticipated to be released on June 22 for Thalapathy Vijay's birthday, and fans are super excited about it. 'Jana Nayagan', 2026 Pongal release 'Jana Nayagan' will have music composed by Anirudh Ravichander, while the cinematography for the film is handled by Sathyan Sooryan. The release date of the highly-anticipated film has been officially locked for January 9, 2026, for the Pongal festival, and is positioned to smash box office records.
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Jana Nayagan': Thalapathy Vijay rumored to sing ‘One Last Song' in his final film – Farewell track to drop soon?
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) As anticipation builds for Thalapathy Vijay 's swansong Jana Nayagan, recent reports say that the superstar may be lending his voice to a special farewell track titled 'One Last Song'. This rumored track is said to be part of the H Vinoth directorial, which is slated for a grand release on January 9, 2026, coinciding with Pongal. According to Valai Pechu, the song is reportedly a high-energy kuthu number packed with nostalgia — featuring lyrical references to Vijay's most iconic dialogues and moments from his illustrious career. Though fans are buzzing with excitement, the makers have not officially confirmed this detail yet. If confirmed, this would mark Vijay's fifth vocal collaboration with music composer Anirudh Ravichander. With Thalapathy Vijay turning 51 on June 22, the team behind Jana Nayagan has announced a special "glimpse" video to be unveiled at 12:00 AM on the actor's birthday. KVN Productions, the film's producer, shared an intense new poster on social media, captioning it, 'A lion is always a lion & his first roar is incoming June 22 | 12.00 AM.' Kuberaa Review: Dhanush & Nagarjuna Deliver Fireworks | Rashmika's Surprise Act | Fans React This birthday reveal has heightened speculation that the glimpse might tease the much-hyped farewell track, making it one of the most awaited fan moments of the year. Final film, star-studded cast 'Jana Nayagan' is rumored to be Vijay's final cinematic outing before he steps into full-time politics, making every update from the film deeply significant for his legion of fans. The political action drama features a powerful cast including Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Prakash Raj, Priyamani, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Mamitha Baiju, Narain, and Shruti Haasan. Directed by H Vinoth, and backed by a stellar technical crew with Sathyan Sooryan as the cinematographer and Anal Arasu handling the action choreography, Jana Nayagan is set to be a grand farewell befitting the legacy of a true mass hero. Whether 'One Last Song' becomes an official goodbye anthem or remains a fan theory — all eyes are now on June 22nd.
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Official! 'Jana Nayagan' glimpse to drop on June 22 as a special treat for Thalapathy Vijay's birthday
Thalapathy Vijay fans are overwhelmed with excitement as the popular South actor celebrates his 51st birthday on June 22. With his birthday coming up in two days, a big update from his upcoming 'Jana Nayagan' was expected to be unveiled. This update has become really important as this is Vijay 's last film. In this context, the team has officially announced that they will be bringing a special glimpse video on June 22nd. "A lion is always a lion & his first roar is incoming 🔥 June 22 | 12.00 AM", captioned the makers by sharing an intense poster featuring Vijay. Expectations peak for 'Jana Nayagan' Directed by H Vinoth, who is popular for directing 'Theeran Adhigaram' and 'Thunivu', this film stars Vijay in the lead role, Pooja Hegde , Bobby Deol, Prakash Raj, Priyamani, Varalaxmi, Revathi, Mamitha Baiju, Narain, and Shruti Haasan in important roles. The film is being made with a powerful technical team of cinematographer Sathyan Sooryan, and action director Anal Arasu. 'Jana Nayagan' is scheduled for a Pongal release in January 2026. Anirudh Ravichander 's soaring background score is anticipated to light up the 'Jana Nayagan' glimpse, while fans await their expectations for the much-awaited video. Re-release and political work, Vijay fans keep themselves busy At the same time, Atlee's Mersal film was also re-released today (June 20) on some of the screens in Tamil Nadu, bringing another gift to the joy of fans. Meanwhile, Vijay's party 'Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam' is launching a "Free Breakfast Scheme" in Villivakkam, Chennai. Also, reports suggest that Vijay will start campaigning and touring across Tamil Nadu in August. Working in 'Jana Nayagan' and focusing on politics, both together mark a new era for Thalapathy Vijay.
