Travelogue 14 – “Chennai, Where Memories Find Me”

This time, Chennai welcomed me differently. The primary reason for my visit was the Intellect Festival at the Chennai Trade Center in Guindy, but the city had other plans for me. Staying in the city (not in Navlur) stirred a wave of nostalgia. I wanted to relive parts of my earlier life here, and though I was saddened to learn that two of my favourite restaurants—Cascade on NH Road and Kabul on TTK Road—no longer exist, the city’s heartbeat felt the same: its chaos, its traffic, and above all, its indomitable spirit.

A special highlight of this trip was catching up with Shyam Srinivasan over a simple Onam lunch. Shyam and I began our Citibank journeys together in 1990 in Chennai, under the same boss. Life took us down different career paths, but I have always admired his extraordinary leadership as the CEO of Federal Bank. Meeting him after so many years reminded me that his greatness lies not only in his accomplishments but in his humility and grace. He is a true role model of leadership that inspires beyond titles and positions. I hope to nurture this connection and make it a part of my future visits to Chennai whenever possible.

And then, of course, the Intellect Festival itself. Every year, this event amazes me with its unmatched energy. The first half of the day was filled with thought-provoking business dialogues, this time centered around business impact. But it was the second half that truly lit up the festival—with culture, music, and joy. I honestly don’t know what made me take the plunge this time—to step onto the stage and dance in front of over 2,000 colleagues. Perhaps it was courage, perhaps it was madness, but it was definitely vulnerability laid bare. With the support of Diksha, who gamely agreed to join me, we curated three of my favorite Bollywood songs, practiced remotely, and finally danced—to whistles and cat calls. It was liberating, exhilarating, and deeply personal—a moment I will carry with me for a long time.

Chennai has always been more than a city for me. It is memory, emotion, and a piece of my journey that never fades. I can never fully explain this bond—but every time I return, the city reminds me why it feels like home.


“Cities change, memories linger, and friendships endure. But some places—like Chennai—leave an imprint so deep that no matter how much time passes, they continue to shape who you are”

Leaving you with a few pictures including my dance.