Postcard set celebrating Madras icons launched in Chennai
A postcard collection featuring the late artist Pavithra Srinivasan's illustrations of iconic Madras buildings was launched at Higginbothams.
A new postcard collection featuring the illustrations of the late artist, writer, and heritage enthusiast Pavithra Srinivasan was launched on Saturday at the Higginbothams Book Store on Anna Salai.
The set, titled "Madras: Arches, Alleys & Icons," showcases her drawings of notable structures including the Big Mosque in Triplicane, the Royapettah clock tower, the Madras High Court, and the Armenian Church. The collection was released by the Postcrossing Welfare Society of India, Nam Veedu, Nam Oor, Nam Kadhai, and the Madras Literary Society.
Speaking at the event, T.N. Venkatesh, Principal Secretary of the Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi Department, recalled Pavithra's contributions, particularly her stories for children published in The Hindu Young World. He noted that Poompuhar, the state handicrafts emporium, would add her illustrations to its memorabilia collection.
Former Madras High Court judge Prabha Sridevan observed that the illustrations reflect Pavithra's deep affection for the city. Historian K. R. A. Narasiah expressed happiness at the launch, noting the illustrations present Madras in varied ways. Heritage enthusiast T.S. Padmapriya mentioned that Pavithra had created illustrations for her book on West Mambalam.
Pavithra's father, Srinivasan, shared that she was also a musician and that a book on Royapuram and trams, which she was working on, is planned for release. Proceeds from her books and materials support a non-profit foundation that funds school fees for underprivileged children.
Architect Thirupurasundari Sevvel said each postcard carries a story, and revealed that a game on Madras co-created with Pavithra will soon be made public. A pack of 12 postcards costs ₹500 and can be ordered by emailing madras.kadhai@gmail.com or via postcardsville.com.