M.G.R. and Amma Memorial Chennai Entry Fee
- No entry fee
M.G.R. and Amma Memorial Chennai Phone
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M.G.R. and Amma Memorial Chennai Address: Marina Beach Road, Navalar Nagar, Chepauk, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600005, India
M.G.R. and Amma Memorial is a memorial complex dedicated to the former chief ministers of Tamil Nadu, M. G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa (fondly called Amma). Sprawling across 8.25 acres, it’s one of the most striking structures in Chennai. An eternal flame illuminates both mausoleums, with a portrait of each individual placed at one end.
The memorial grounds aren’t only a tribute to two iconic leaders, but also an inspiration for public architecture and planning. The place is designed for a peaceful visit, with extensive landscaping, serene water bodies, and well-maintained granite pathways.
If you’re seeking peaceful places to visit in Tamil Nadu, the MGR and Jayalalithaa Memorial is a must-visit public space. The premises also house a museum of M.G.R. and Jayalalitha.
Where is M.G.R. and Amma Memorial in Chennai?
MGR Memorial Chennai is located on Kamarajar Promenade, on the Marina Beach seafront in Chennai. Amma Memorial is built on the same premises, adjacent to a memorial dedicated to C. N. Annadurai. The location of Marina Beach MGR Memorial offers seamless access to the seafront, making it a perfect complement to a beach walk.
Image Gallery of M.G.R. and Amma Memorial Chennai
History of M.G.R. and Amma Memorial Chennai
Dr. M.G.R. Memorial Chennai was built in 1988 and inaugurated by V. N. Janaki Ramachandran, wife of M. G. Ramachandran, in May 1990. It was remodelled in 1992, and the complex was laid with marble by J. Jayalalithaa, the then chief minister of Tamil Nadu. In 2004, extensive repairs had to be carried out when a tsunami damaged the memorial.
In 2012, the memorial was again remodelled, with a fresh facade, renovated boundary wall, and a new entrance. Landscaping of the open area, planting of exotic shrubs, and other cosmetic enhancements were also made at this time, along with the addition of ramps for people with physical disabilities.
When Dr. J. Jayalalithaa died in 2016, she was buried beside Dr. MGR (her mentor) here. Amma Memorial (or Jayalalithaa Memorial) was constructed at that time, and the memorial complex came to be known as M.G.R. and Amma Memorial.
Architecture of M.G.R. and Amma Memorial
The memorial complex spreads over 8.25 acres along the Marina Beach seafront. And the twin shrines reflect the legacy of two political personalities through iconic architectural forms. While the M.G.R. Memorial is shaped like a lotus, the Amma Memorial resembles a phoenix. The entry arch features a Pegasus, and it’s flanked by the two-leaf emblem of MGR’s AIADMK party.
Granite pathways from the entrance lead to the mausoleum areas through landscaped gardens. Korean grass provides a soft, resilient ground cover ideal for coastal conditions, and exotic plants add diverse textures and colours. Adding warmth to the site is a minimalist pergola-like structure – crafted from teak-finished hardwood with brass accents.
Water bodies have also been skilfully integrated throughout the memorial complex to enhance tranquility. A central fountain acts as a visual anchor, a rear waterfall creates a calming soundscape, and small reflecting pools reflect both sky and structure.
Things to do at M.G.R. and Jayalalitha Amma Memorial
1. Paying respect to the leaders – The M.G.R. Memorial and Amma Memorial have been built in honour of two towering political figures of Tamil Nadu. The ever-burning flame inside the memorial stands as a symbol of an enduring legacy. And the adjoining museums feature chronological displays of those leaders’ personal and public lives. They highlight various key milestones through photographs, awards and personal artefacts.
2. Admiring the architecture – The memorial complex blends symbolism and grandeur. The MGR Memorial, shaped like a lotus, symbolises purity and eternal influence. And the Amma Memorial’s phoenix-inspired design represents rebirth and resilience. A lit Pegasus statue and a grand archway dramatically mark the entrance. Then, the lighting scheme transforms this space into an ethereal nighttime experience.
3. Enjoying a visit to Marina Beach – MGR and Amma Memorial Chennai is surrounded by open areas of grass and beautiful pathways with the long stretch of Marina Beach as the backdrop. You can stroll along the sandy shoreline, watch the waves roll in, or catch a golden sunrise. The open lawns and sea breeze make your visit refreshing.
Amma M.G.R. Memorial Timings and Entry Fees
The memorial complex is open every day from 6 AM to 9 PM. The best time to visit it is in winter, between November and February. Visit in the morning to explore the site thoroughly. You can comfortably spend around an hour here.
The Amma and MGR Memorial entry fee is zero.
How to reach M.G.R. and Amma Memorial in Chennai?
Dr. M.G.R. and Dr. J.Jayalalitha Memorial is located at Marina Beach, close to the city centre. It’s 4 km from Chennai Central railway station, 14 km from the bus terminus in Koyambedu, and 20 km from Chennai airport.
And here are the different ways to reach the memorial complex –
By metro – M.G.R. and Amma Memorial is accessible via the Chennai metro. Government Estate is the nearest metro station, around 2 km away.
By bus – Local city buses are also easily available. Ezhilagam and Anna Square are the nearest bus stops, only around a hundred metres away from the memorial entrance.
By auto/e-rickshaw – The memorial is also accessible via auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws. They’re available throughout the city.
By taxi/cab – Hiring a taxi or private cab is the best way to visit the MGR Memorial in Chennai. You can easily book them from the top car rental companies in Chennai and explore the memorial, Marina Beach and other nearby tourist spots.
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