Chennai formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, Chennai had a population of an estimated 7.5 million, making it the fourth largest metropolitan city in India. The city was established in the 17th century by the British, who developed it into a major urban centre and naval base. Chennai's economy has a broad industrial base in the automobile, technology, hardware manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
Chennai is known for its sport venues and hosts an Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) event, the Chennai Open. The city is known for its classical dance shows and Hindu temples. Every December, Chennai holds a five-week long Music Season celebrating the 1927 opening of the Madras Music Academy. Among Chennai's festivals, Pongal is celebrated over five days in January, is the most important.