A venue like no other
Our Story
Where lasting memories meet unforgettable moments.
AVM Gardens instantly evokes nostalgia with its rich past filled with renowned actors, distinguished film makers, cinema giants, political leaders, visionaries and newsmakers who have all been part of its history. After all, it was the residence of the famous movie mogul, film producer, director and philanthropist Mr. A.V. Meiyappan, the founder of AVM Studios and a leading pioneer of Indian cinema who helped establish Kollywood in South India. His production company AVM Productions is the only production company in the Tamil film industry to still run successfully for five decades and three generations.
1965
Constructed in 1965 inside AVM Studio Complex in Vadapalani by Chennai's renowned architect P.S. Govind Rao, it was initially referred to as 'Cottage' and later it was fondly called the 'Chettiar Bungalow' by the film fraternity.
Needless to say, our prestigious bungalow has a colourful heritage playing host to illustrious national and international celebrities from around the world. To name a few, it has welcomed numerous Bollywood stalwarts like Raj Kapoor, Amitabh Bachan, Rishi Kapoor, Ashok Kumar & Kishore Kumar; Southern super stars like MGR, Sivaji, Rajinikanth and Kamal Hasan and even celebrated film maker Satyajit Ray and music directors Laxmikanth Pyarelal. In fact, Oscar winner Fredric March, one of Hollywood's most celebrated, versatile stars of the 1930s and 40s has visited this residence. Anna Durai, the first chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi and many more leaders have also visited this iconic home.
1966
The 100th day of Anbe Vaa (1966), AVM Production's first colour film made in Eastmancolor was celebrated in this same house. In 1970, during the wedding of the youngest son of Mr AVM, a gazebo was also inaugurated that would later become a notable spot on it own.
1970's
The house was formally let out for film shootings. The 1975 hit Aboorva Ragangal starring Kamal Hasan, Rajinikanth and Srividya directed by K. Balachander was the first film shot here. This was followed by hits like Ninaithale Inikkum (1979), Sakalakala Vallavan (1982), Vazhve Mayam (1982) and others being filmed here. More recently, it has also featured in ad films, short films and TV serials and continues to function as a film shooting venue to this day.
Location
AVM Gardens, is an urban oasis located in the heart of Chennai inside AVM Studio Complex but away from the hustle and bustle of Arcot road.
