Chennai, the city that made me brave and smart, says RJ Balaji

Actor and film director Balaji Patturaj, popularly known as RJ Balaji. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement Chennai is my home. I was born here. I grew up here. I have lived all my life here. This city has made me brave, smart and kind. It has made me who I am today. When I was in the sixth standard, my mother would put me on a bus at Madhavaram Milk Colony and send me all the way to Thiruvanmiyur to stay overnight at a friend’s house. From there I took a share auto to my friends house. I have lived in Saidapet, Perambur, Vadapalani, Porur, Ambattur, Mylapore, Mandaveli, Kotturpuram and Adyar.I have friends from all walks of life, from tailors to AC mechanics. These experiences have shaped the way I understand and connect with people. Be it the Chennai floods or jallikattu, I have been part of what this city has gone through. I was part of volunteer groups, and people here saw me as one among them.There is a spot near the Thiruvanmiyur RTO office, where my grandfather and I planted a neem tree several years ago. I take my children there, touch the tree and hug it.Even now, I take my two wheeler, put on my helmet and a mask, and ride to my favourite places.(As told to Sangeetha Kandavel) Published - September 11, 2026 05:15 am IST