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**Summary:**

Rajaji Hall in Chennai, a historical building with colonial-era architecture, has been a popular location for Tamil films for decades. Its grand staircase, iconic columns, and imposing facade have made it a fitting backdrop for scenes set in government offices, courtrooms, and even palaces. The hall has featured in iconic scenes from movies like “Mouna Ragam” and “Thalapathi,” and directors appreciate its large working space and grandeur. Despite past lack of amenities, Rajaji Hall continues to attract filmmakers, even for international productions. Currently, the Public Works Department is renovating the hall.

**News Article:**

**Chennai’s Rajaji Hall: A Storied Stage for Tamil Cinema Undergoes Renovation**

**CHENNAI, August 18, 2025** – Rajaji Hall, the iconic colonial-era building in Chennai, is undergoing renovation by the Public Works Department, but its legacy as a prominent filming location for Tamil cinema remains firmly etched in the industry’s history.

For decades, the hall’s grand staircase and imposing facade have served as a versatile backdrop for countless films. Its architecture lends itself perfectly to scenes set in government buildings, courtrooms, and even palaces.

“There was no place like Rajaji Hall in Chennai,” recalls A.M. Nandakumar, a director with 38 movies under his belt, including “Rickshaw Mama” with Sathyaraj. “I liked Rajaji Hall for its large working space.” Nandakumar even used the hall for a Japanese film, “Nattu Odoru! Ninja Densetsu,” constructing a massive palace set within its walls.

Rajaji Hall holds cinematic importance. Memorable moments from Mani Ratnam’s films like “Mouna Ragam” and “Thalapathi” were filmed on its stairs. In “Mouna Ragam,” the tragic scene of Karthik’s character being shot was filmed. The intense interaction between Mammootty and Amrish Puri in “Thalapathi” occurred there.

While Rajaji Hall has offered grandeur for filming, it has been criticized for lacking basic amenities in the past. Actor Mohan V. Raman remembers caravans and tents being used to accommodate actors during the filming of the Japanese movie.

The ongoing renovation aims to modernize the hall, and promises to preserve its iconic appeal for future filmmakers. It is certain that Rajaji Hall will continue to be a landmark for Chennai cinema.

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