Victoria Public Hall Reopens, Restored to Its Historic Glory
Chennai’s iconic Victoria Public Hall is set to reopen on December 23, 2025, following the completion of extensive restoration work carried out at a cost of ₹32.62 crore. The heritage structure, located between Chennai Central Railway Station and Ripon Buildings, has been revived under the Singara Chennai 2.0 initiative.
Built in 1887 to commemorate the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria’s reign, the hall was designed by Robert Fellowes Chisholm and constructed by Thatikonda Namberumal Chetty. Once a major civic and cultural centre hosting national leaders and pioneering Tamil theatre performances, the building had fallen into disuse due to years of neglect.
The restoration, overseen by Savani Heritage with Abha Narain Lambah Associates as consultants, focused on structural strengthening, including the timber roof trusses and tower roofs. Officials say the building has successfully withstood recent monsoons without leakage.
Post-restoration, the hall will host cultural programmes, exhibitions, public meetings, and rolling museum exhibits, with the upper hall capable of accommodating around 300 people. The reopening marks the return of a historic landmark to the people of Chennai, blending heritage with contemporary public use.
