The Statue of Sir Pitti Theagaraya Chetty
Located on the lawn of the iconic Ripon Building in Chennai, the white marble statue of Diwan Bahadur Sir Pitti Theagaraya Chetty stands out as a tribute to his pivotal role in the city's civic administration. Sir Theagaraya Chetty (1852–1925) was a trailblazer in urban governance and the co-founder of the Justice Party, which influenced the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. His reforms in municipal administration, particularly in improving infrastructure and public services, have left a lasting legacy in Madras. The statue commemorates his contributions.
Crafted by the renowned sculptor Nagappan, the statue was unveiled by Sir George Fredrick Stanley, the Governor of Madras, on October 31, 1931. The statue depicts Sir Theagaraya Chetty in a dignified stance, clad in traditional Indian attire— a long coat and a turban—symbolizing his cultural identity. In his left hand, he holds a rolled document, representing his significant role in legislation and public administration. His expression reflects stoic determination, underscoring his commitment to public service and leadership.
The pedestal features a plaque detailing milestones of his life and achievements, along with the Chennai Corporation emblem above the inscription. The emblem showcases a lion, and a shield with stylized waves and landmarks.
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