Sun Feb 22 09:49:06 UTC 2026: ### Victoria Hostel: A Chennai Landmark Grapples with Time and Tradition

The Story:

A recent article in The Hindu, published on February 22, 2026, sheds light on the current state of the Government Victoria Student’s Hostel in Chepauk, Chennai. The hostel, affiliated with Presidency College, stands as a historical landmark, inaugurated on January 29, 1900. While retaining its architectural charm, the report reveals visible signs of deterioration and neglect. Despite its age, the hostel continues to serve approximately 800 students, offering them a space for residence and recreation amidst the increasingly busy surroundings of Chepauk.

Key Points:

  • The Victoria Student’s Hostel is located in Chepauk, Chennai, near the Chepauk MRTS station and M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.
  • The hostel was inaugurated on January 29, 1900, by Arthur Elibank Havelock, the Governor of Madras.
  • The building’s design is based on an English college quadrangle.
  • Notable alumni include Sir C.V. Raman, Subramanyan Chandrasekhar, and Field Marshall K.M. Cariappa.
  • The hostel currently houses around 800 students from Presidency College.
  • The hostel is listed as a heritage building by the Justice E. Padmanabhan Committee (2009).
  • The construction cost was ₹2.25 lakh.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Victoria Hostel, despite its historical significance and architectural merit, faces challenges related to maintenance and upkeep.
  • The hostel continues to play a vital role in accommodating students of Presidency College.
  • The article highlights the need for preservation efforts to protect Chennai’s heritage buildings.

    Read More

Related News: