Located in Kanadukathan, the S.A.S.RM Heritage House is a fine example of the traditional mansions that made the Chettinad region famous for its distinctive architecture and craftsmanship. There is a nominal entry fee of Rs 50 per head. We were given a printout of the basic info of the house on entry.
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| Pamphlet shared by the caretaker |
According to the information provided by the owners, the house is approximately 150 years old, reflecting the prosperity and refined lifestyle of the Chettiar community during the nineteenth century. Like many grand Chettinad mansions, it combines local architectural traditions with materials and influences brought from different parts of the world through the overseas trading connections of the Chettiars.
The house is particularly notable for its symmetrical design, with the right and left sides mirroring each other. Its doors and windows are made of teakwood imported from Burma, while the glass and mirrors came from Belgium. The iron girders are said to be brought from Birmingham, and the flooring features traditional Athangudi tiles.
The house also reflects the ingenuity of traditional Chettinad architecture, particularly its emphasis on symmetry, natural ventilation, spacious interiors and rainwater harvesting. A large copper vessel in the kitchen area was traditionally used for collecting rainwater. The walls were polished using an egg-white plaster finish, another distinctive feature of Chettinad construction.
The S.A.S.RM. Heritage House is more than an ancestral residence; it is a reminder of an era when the Nagarathar community's international trade, wealth and cultural outlook found expression in magnificent family homes. Its combination of indigenous craftsmanship and imported materials makes it a valuable part of Kanadukathan's architectural legacy.
Today, by opening its doors to visitors and photography enthusiasts, the family is helping preserve and share this remarkable heritage with future generations.
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