Madras Then Chennai Now is a magnificent coffee-table book that chronicles the fascinating transformation of Chennai from its origins as colonial Madras into one of India's most dynamic metropolitan cities. Written by historian Nanditha Krishna and poet-writer Tishani Doshi, the book is divided into two complementary sections—"Madras Then," which explores the city's rich historical past through rare archival photographs and historical accounts, and "Chennai Now," which presents the modern city through stunning contemporary photography and insightful commentary. Readers are taken on a visual and historical journey through Chennai's evolution, from the establishment of the East India Company and Fort St. George to the city's emergence as India's cultural capital and a global center for information technology, automobile manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The book showcases iconic landmarks, historic neighborhoods, colonial buildings, temples, churches, bustling markets, harbors, and the famous Marina Beach while highlighting the people, traditions, politics, cinema, and cultural movements that have shaped the city's identity. Featuring over 200 rare archival and modern photographs sourced from museums, libraries, and private collections, the book beautifully contrasts the city's past and present. Elegantly designed and extensively researched, Madras Then Chennai Now is an invaluable resource for historians, travelers, photographers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the heritage and evolution of one of India's most historic cities.