Nuisance or Fandom? The Complex Story of Thalapathy Vijay’s House on Casuarina Drive

Chennai has a variety of posh residential spots, some at the center and some by the coast. Casuarina Drive is one such hot residential spot with nature and architecture to celebrate with the warm shore wind on our faces.

ECR is a peak weekend hub currently for the people in Chennai. A drive on the coastal road from Thiruvanmiyur to Mahabalipuram has become more than a ritual in recent days. Don’t forget to see the big Kapaleeswarar Nagar arch on the left as you reach Neelankarai. This arch pulls you directly into the wide blue sea; located just 700 meters from the arch. Just before the beach, a small posh lane welcomes you standing out. This street is called Casuarina Drive.

What’s so special about this street?

Locals love this street as the vehicle movement is very minimal, which helps them to walk peacefully. This road has natural grass growing on the sides and, of course, the breeze from the sea transports you to another realm.
Not just nature, but the buildings and villas here are a visual treat to witness. The detailed architecture on this street makes you feel you’re in a fancy residential area elsewhere in this world.

They do not leave the street dull but are decorated with passion. Some examples are the beautiful stone mural works and the fancy gates of the modern villas.
Celebrities like Dinesh Karthik, Thalapathy Vijay, and even Director Bharathiraja live in this swank paradise.

The safe environment created by CCTV Cameras and green pathways makes this place a haven.

The current scenario of the street

Recently the news about Superstar actor Vijay’s residence has gathered a lot of attention amongst his fans. This is attracting countless to the location, which is transforming this peaceful, posh lane into a chaotic hot spot.

This is slowly taking away the peaceful ambiance of the place from the locals. During weekends, the situation is getting worse.

What can be done?

Gathering at a famous star’s residence is normal, but transforming a quiet residential hub into an exhibition is not what the locals signed up for. This could also be a nuisance for the actor himself.
The fans could enjoy the beautiful lane, respect nature, click a few snaps, and chill at the beach just 200 meters away.
Even a star needs a private life in his home and fans should respect it. The locals need the peace and beauty of that lane to stay for them to cherish it.

Is it wrong to visit the area just for the star actor?

Absolutely not. The drive is for every human to use and celebrate freely, whether they are a star, a fan, or a local resident returning home. The problem arises when a fan blocks the road for some reels or gathers in front of the gate to grab the attention of the actor. This act disturbs the beauty and tranquility of the street, which is mainly dominated by pedestrians.

A coastal city like Chennai is blessed only with a few pockets like Casuarina Drive. So it is up to us to cherish, celebrate, and enjoy the beauty of it. Even our Thalapathy wants that for our city.