THINNAI - VERANDA - PORCH

Thinnai - Veranda or Porch

Thinnai is a classic architectural element seen in ancient South Indian houses with a raised, shaded platform. It captures the essence of traditional Indian homes, with the front porch serving as a common space for social interaction, storytelling, and relaxing. With its architectural wonders and rich cultural legacy, India has a wide range of architectural styles that represent its varied history and customs, as well as its rich Cultural legacy. Thinnai represents hospitality community and Cultural identity. Originating in Tamil Nadu  in Southern India, is extremely significant and still has an impact on modern design.

Social Gatherings - Thinnai

Thinnai is an architectural element designed for discussion and catnaps. Thinnai is a shaded area to sit in and enjoy the surroundings. It is also a location where the family would gather to talk, discuss the latest news, share their perspectives on various issues, read, or even take an afternoon sleep. It's also a nice area for passers-by to take a break and drink some water. 

The Thinnai is a shaded raised platform placed on both sides of a home at the entrance and supported by pillars. Along with the raised platform, a pillow is raised or constructed from cement or red oxide. Thinnai offers shade, which keeps the interior of the house cool. It is composed of the same materials as the floor, such as stone, cement, lime plaster, red oxide, or bare granite. Some  Thinnai are formed of clay, brick, or stone and carved with designs.

Traditional India - Thinnai

Thinnai are widely found in traditional Tamil households, particularly in warm parts of South India. Thinnai is commonly connected with hospitality. Thinnai has steadily vanished due to a variety of circumstances, including British military engineers. During the 18th century, British military engineers built or renovated old bungalows to accommodate wraparound verandahs, and Thinnai disappeared. Another factor is a lack of space and concerns about safety. 

Thinnai has: 

• Architectural feature
• Social Hub
• Connection to the out doors
• Special design
• Cultural Significance

Conclusion

Thinnai is a unique sitting arrangement in a home's entryway. It is specifically intended for family members and passers-by to sit and relax. Thinnai, also known as veranda, is becoming increasingly rare in India. We can only find Thinnai in villages.

While traditional Thinnai is becoming less frequent in modern urban construction, some are looking into methods to incorporate similar elements into modern residences, such as large balconies or sit-outs.

 The information for this blog article hit for  a reason:  During my early morning walk, I looked out for a Thinnai to sit and rest for a while, but I couldn't find one in my town. At this point, I miss Thinnai. I'm glad I grew up in a time when most houses possessed Thinnai,and slept on a Thinnai platform and also known as Thinnai veedu.