‘Chennai is a deceptive market and people embrace change in fashion and lifestyle’ 

C.K. Kumaravel's fondest memory of Chennai is his first visit to VGP Golden Beach on ECR. He grew to appreciate the city's culture, from Ratna Cafe's sambhar and vada to the city's embrace of fashion and lifestyle. He realised he was a true blue Chennaite when Naturals Salon and Spa opened and was welcomed by the city. Self-care has since transformed in Chennai, with no taboo to visit beauty parlours.

CEO of Naturals Salon and Spa

C.K. Kumaravel

Your fondest memory of Chennai? 

My native place was Cuddalore and my first visit to the city was the VGP Golden Beach on ECR. On that visit, when I came along with school friends, it was a lot of ‘Ah and Wow’ movement of the first impression of the city. The group went to Moore Market which was at that time where one could get everything under the sun and a few other places. That visit remains a fond memory forever. 

How did the city grow on you? Tell your story? 

My younger days were spent playing cricket and visiting Ratna Cafe to have sambhar and vada where also I saw for the first time sambhar being consumed more than the Idli. In fact, at first I was surprised that how come people could have sambhar in jugs but as I grew up, it has caught on and I have more sambhar than those sitting next to me. Several little little things have made fabulous impressions on me. 

When did you realise that you have become a true blue Chennaite?