Chennai, the city that made me brave and smart, says RJ Balaji

Chennai is my home. I was born here. I grew up here. I have lived all my life here. This city has made me brave, smart and kind. It has made me who I am today. When I was in the sixth standard, my mother would put me on a bus at Madhavaram Milk Colony and send me all the way to Thiruvanmiyur to stay overnight at a friend’s house. From there I took a share auto to my friends house. I have lived in Saidapet, Perambur, Vadapalani, Porur, Ambattur, Mylapore, Mandaveli, Kotturpuram and Adyar.

I have friends from all walks of life, from tailors to AC mechanics. These experiences have shaped the way I understand and connect with people. Be it the Chennai floods or jallikattu, I have been part of what this city has gone through. I was part of volunteer groups, and people here saw me as one among them.

There is a spot near the Thiruvanmiyur RTO office, where my grandfather and I planted a neem tree several years ago. I take my children there, touch the tree and hug it.

Even now, I take my two wheeler, put on my helmet and a mask, and ride to my favourite places.

(As told to Sangeetha Kandavel)