The India Tourism and Industrial Fair, also known as Sutrula Porutkatchi, has been a cherished part of Chennai’s cultural life for decades. Held at Island Grounds, the fair is remembered fondly by many residents over the age of 50 for its vibrant lights, colours, and delicious food. Long before shopping malls became popular, the fair was a place where families could spend quality time together, enjoy the soft sand, feel the cool sea breeze from the nearby Bay of Bengal, and snack on tasty treats like large pappads and spicy chilli bajjis.
This year, the 70-day-long fair, which recently began with great excitement at Island Grounds, turned 50. The fair was originally conceived and named by former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, and it has continued to be a significant cultural and tourism event in the city ever since.
Over the years, the India Tourism and Industrial Fair has become more than just a marketplace. It is a space where tradition, entertainment, and innovation come together, attracting thousands of visitors from across the city and beyond. People look forward to the lively performances, food stalls, and exhibitions that showcase India’s rich culture, crafts, and industries.
For many Chennai residents, especially older generations, the fair is not just an event—it is a beloved memory of family outings, joyful moments, and the simple pleasures of city life by the sea.