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

Actor and film director Balaji Patturaj, popularly known as RJ Balaji.

Chennai is my home. I was born here. I grew up here. I’ve lived here all my life. This city made me brave, smart and kind. It made me who I am today. When I was in the sixth standard, my mother put me in a bus at Madhavaram Milk Colony and sent me all the way to Thiruvanmiyur to spend the night at a friend’s house. From there I took a shared car 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 Chennai floods or jallikattu, I have been a part of what this city has gone through. I was part of volunteer groups and people here saw me as one of them.

Near the Thiruvanmiyur RTO office is where my grandfather and I planted a neem tree a few years ago. I will take my children there and touch the tree and hug it.

Even now, I take my two-wheeler, put on my helmet and mask and ride to my favorite places.

(As told by Sangeetha Kandavel)

Published – 11 Sep 2026 05:15 IST