The city and its people have been a constant source of inspiration for my writing, says Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi

Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi, Indian film director and writer.

| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

I’m deeply connected to Madras and Chennai. The city has shaped me into the person I am today. Even today, no matter where I travel…. even to the most exotic destination...I can’t stay away for more than 10 days without starting to miss Chennai. As the flight begins to land, I feel, ‘Ah, I’m back home.’Both my parents were employed, and my father constantly encouraged me to be independent. I grew up roaming the streets of Chennai. In my early days, I had a BSA Champ bicycle and later a Sunny, and I would ride around the city. I have also travelled extensively on public transport, including taking buses from Purasawalkam to Kilpauk. I would often take autorickshaws and strike up conversations with the auto annas.My first film as a director was Vanakkam Chennai (Greetings Chennai). It is about two people from different parts of the world who arrive in Chennai and the challenges they face. Most of my films revolve around Chennai. The city and its people have been a constant source of inspiration for my writing.(As told to Sangeetha Kandavel) Published - August 26, 2026 09:01 am IST