Our Regional Chapters
Led locally, run by volunteers who know their region best.
FoHS PANDYAS — MADURAI CHAPTER
Preserving the Living Heritage of Tamizhagam
Friends of Heritage Sites (FoHS) is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. FoHS Pandyas, the Madurai chapter, was formally established through a Memorandum of Understanding with FoHS Central, Chennai, in April 2022. From its first seminar it has worked outward from the Vaigai into the Palani and Kodai hills, east to the trenches at Keezhadi, south along the Tamiraparani and out to the Gulf of Mannar — sixteen recorded outings across fourteen sites.
A Chapter Born From Curiosity About Home
FoHS Pandyas was officially inaugurated on 4 December 2021 at Triveni Academy, Madurai, with a dynamic leadership team and 17 charter members. It brought together scholars, artists and enthusiasts committed to celebrating the region's cultural wealth.
The chapter soon grew into a platform for immersive learning and community-driven heritage exploration. Its early seminar on the Ayyanar tradition in Tamizhagam, followed by a field visit exploring folk deities, set the foundation for its unique blend of academic learning and experiential heritage.
Recent Highlights
Chithira Koodal Art Exhibit
An art show celebrating Tamil traditions through visual storytelling, hosted at Hotel Chithira, Madurai.
Thandikudi Heritage Excursion
Students explored megalithic dolmens, temples and Paniya culture with art historian K.T. Gandhirajan, building awareness of the region's heritage and ecology.
4th R. Venkatraman Memorial Lecture Series
A memorial lecture continuing the series in honour of R. Venkatraman.
Kasampatti Trail
A guided walk through sacred groves and rural shrines, focusing on ecological heritage and ancient worship.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND FoHS
Meet the Pandyas Team
Ramaa Srikrishna
An avid reader and heritage enthusiast with interests in history, mythology and Indian traditions. She actively promotes meaningful conversations around archaeology and culture.
Rajeev
Businessman and traveller from Madurai with a passion for history, mythology and heritage. He actively encourages awareness of Tamil Nadu's cultural legacy.
Start Your Journey Here
The rich heritage of Tamil Nadu thrives only when we protect it together. Whether you have time to volunteer, expertise to share, or a passion to support, there is a place for you in our community.
Join FoHS Pandyas