Goethe-Estitut/Max Muller Bhavan, Chennai, is in a festive mood for this year and good reason. The institute has the 65th anniversary in 2025, which has been in the heart of cultural exchange and cooperation between India and Germany for decades.
Like its counterparts in other Indian cities, the Chennai Institute was originally known as Max Muller Bhavan, after the German Indologist Frederick Max Muller (1823–1900), on whose ancient Indian texts, scholarships in Oxford left a permanent mark on the study of Indian Philology, History and Religion.
A German class progress at Max Muller Bhavan in 1974. Photo Credit: Hindu Archives
Established as a center for German language and cultural exchange in 1960, the institute began on Mount Road, where it was based for its first 14 years. It later moved to the Cathedral Road, then Cake Road, and today it is at the Rotland Gate. Although the buildings have changed, the essence of the Goethe-Estitute has been stable; To offer an open, reception place for all for German language, culture and ideas.
Over the years, the organization has collaborated with artists from both countries, among them Pina Bosch, Chandralekha, Gunter Grass and AR Rahman. It has nurtured the creative exchanges in styles, supported exhibitions, and provided a platform for emerging talent. Chennai Photo Bienle and its role in co-founder in many other partners have deepened these connections.
A German audio-visual class in progress at Max Muller Bhavan in Madras in 1982. Photo Credit: Hindu Photo Archives
Beyond culture, the institute has been a gateway to the German language for thousands of learners. Children, young adults, professionals and students preparing for higher education in Germany have found their way here. In Chennai, the German is trying to learn for anyone, the Goethe-Estitute is a long time to go.
“For 65 years, the Goethe-institute has been a vibrant place in the heart of the city of Chennai, Germany and India, enthusiasts towards culture and German learners, partners and projects together,” Kathrina Goergen, Director, Goath Institute, Chennai.
Goethe-Estitut, Max Muller Bhavan, Chennai | Photo Credit: Hindu
To mark its 65th year, the Goethe-Estitute is organizing a day incident on 23 August, with suitable activities for all age groups. The day starts with a heritage walk at 6.30 am, followed by a troop of brass artists in the auditorium at 9 am. A story session will be held at 10 am, and a quiz is scheduled for 2.30 am. A inter-state debate titled “Now Aur Phir” will be held at 4 pm, followed by a singing concert at 6 pm.
On the occasion of these scheduled events, one day photography exhibition, a repair cafe, a cloth collection drive and a small German test course (Schnupperstunden).
To celebrate the Goethe medal to Mrs. Ellen Sharma, head of the German department, a reception was held at Madras University, Max Muller Bhawan, Madras, which was held on 30 July 1962, Vice Chancellor of Madras University, Dr. A. Photo Credit: Hindu Photo Archives
Various types of interactive workshops highlighting the anniversary are also included. These include the Happiness Manifesto Dance Workshop by Basement 21; A glass painting workshop by Lata Mani for children aged 8 and above; 8 and above children aged a puppet workshop by Vincents; Theater improvement for children between 7 and 14 years of age by Navneth of Mirror Theater; Science Sparks by Science Pai; A book-binding workshop by Amal; And bookmark embroidery by Humsa.
For participating in all workshops, pre-regulation is mandatory. For details, call 28331314 or register online on www.goothe.de/chennai. For all workshops, there is a fee of 300, and the participant gets a three -month library membership.
Published – August 20, 2025 04:34 pm IST
