It is well organized and they handle the rush very well. People are polite despite handling large number of folks everyday.
I had been there twice and you pass through multiple checkpoints before getting to final counter for biometric.
Show up on time at the entrance. Keep the appointment confirmation letter that you need to show to security personnel and they will let you in. You literally do not need anything apart from DS160 confirmation page, passport, and appointment letter. Keep your DS160 and current passport together (just keep the ds160 folded in your passport) - Thats your first checkpoint. If you’re with family let each member carry their own ds160 with passport. Primary applicant can carry the appointment confirmation letter. You walk another level up and queue up, here they would ask for switching off the cell. Keep it light, only cell and wallet is allowed. Only required document is your passport, DS160 and appointment letter - can’t stress enough. They will call you for security scan and to another checkpoint where they will verify your DS160 confirmation page and passport for correctness. Letter by letter. Next checkpoint is where they give you a token with your number in the queue, and add a barcode at the back of your passport. Wait for your turn. Keep track of your turn on monitors. They will call your number and thats your cue to show up at the counter listed against your token in the monitor. Hand over DS160, passport and the token. They will take a photo and fingerprints. Ask simple questions for verification and boom you are done.
If you have carried any bag, security at entrance will let you know to keep it safe somewhere. There is small shop inside the center where you can keep your bag for hefty fee. So just avoid the bag altogether. If you are with baby, they give you priority and you will front of the queue at all checkpoints, so you will be out in no time, so skip the baby bag any food or water/milk bottle. Take first appointment if your baby is too small, so that you are out in first 15 minutes, I had a 8:00am appointment with my wife and 18 mo. We were out in 15-20 minute. I was the first one and my wife was third in line to get the biometric.
If you have any mistakes in your form, it will be uncovered at #4 and for ramifications they will suggest options. You can get it done on ground level shop again at an hefty price and by shouting your way amid the angry folks. There is no sense of courtesy or humanity at this shop. So just...
Read moreValluvar Kottam is a monument in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, built to honor the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, who authored the renowned literary work, Thirukkural. It stands as a cultural and architectural landmark of the city and is dedicated to promoting Tamil heritage.
Introduction:
Inaugurated in 1976, Valluvar Kottam was constructed during the tenure of the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi.
It was designed by V. Ganapati Sthapati, a famous architect who also designed the statue of Thiruvalluvar in Kanyakumari.
The monument is a symbolic representation of Tamil literature, paying tribute to one of the greatest literary figures in Tamil culture.
Key Features:
Main Auditorium:
Valluvar Kottam features a massive auditorium that can seat around 4,000 people. This auditorium is often used for cultural events, meetings, and conferences.
It is regarded as one of the largest auditoriums in Asia.
Chariot Structure (Kottam):
The main feature is the life-size replica of a temple chariot (rath), which is approximately 39 meters (128 feet) high.
This chariot houses a statue of Thiruvalluvar, standing at 9 feet tall, positioned as if he is leading the monument.
The chariot's intricate design and ornamentation follow the architectural style of South Indian temples, symbolizing a traditional Tamil temple car procession.
Thirukkural Engravings:
One of the unique aspects of the monument is the engraving of all 1,330 verses of the Thirukkural on its granite pillars. Each verse is divided into three chapters across 133 sections.
This feature makes Valluvar Kottam an important site for scholars and those interested in Tamil literature.
Surrounding Complex:
The monument is surrounded by a peaceful garden, enhancing its cultural significance.
There are also water fountains and a pond, making it a serene place for visitors.
Cultural Hub:
Valluvar Kottam is not just a monument but also serves as a venue for various cultural exhibitions, book fairs, and programs related to Tamil arts and literature.
Overall, Valluvar Kottam stands as a blend of Tamil culture, literature, and architecture, honoring the timeless wisdom of Thiruvalluvar’s Thirukkural. It continues to be a landmark symbol of Chennai’s rich...
Read moreWhat Makes It Awesome Valluvar Kottam is not just a name we use to give directions or a use as a landmark while entering Nungambakkam. This lesser-known historical structure was built in 1976 and is dedicated to the famous Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar. What was once a large large which was used as a dumping ground, was later reformed and used as land to build this monument. The 40-meter-tall temple chariot is the main feature of this site and is made out of 3000 blocks of stone. It is supported by four wheels, each measuring up to 11 feet in diameter and 2 feet in thickness! All of the 1330 verses from 133 chapters of Valluvar's Thirukkural, are engraved on the walls of the facade corridor. If you enter the large stone chariot, you will witness a life-size statue of the poet, surrounded by kalamkari drawings. The chariot is said to be a larger, more detailed replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. This gem was designed and constructed with the guidance of V Ganapathi Sthapati, who also designed the famous Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kaniyakumari. In addition to being an iconic tourist destination in Chennai, Valluvar Kottam also hosts some of the most interesting exhibition and events. The auditorium can accommodate close to 4000 people and regular handicrafts and handloom expos are held. Valluvar Kottam is one of the fine structures which symoblises the splendid Tamil culture and pays homage to one of the greatest works of Tamil literature. The design of the monument is unique and is a sight to behold. It is also a perfect spot to shoot a couple of pictures! Pro-Tip It takes close to an hour or a little more to cover this place and it is a perfect spot for history buffs and...
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