Chennai is formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. With an estimated population of 7.06 million (2007), it is the fourth largest metropolitan city in India and the 32nd largest metropolitan area in the world. The city was established in the 17th century by the British, who developed it into a major urban center and naval base.
Chennai is the third largest commercial and industrial centre in India.
