Chennai, October 11 (WION): After Chinese Prime Minister Zhou Enlai visited the Integral (Railway) Coach Factory in Perambur near Chennai in December 1956, he wrote in the guest register that China could learn coach making from the Indian factory.
“This is a modern coach factory. It is worthwhile for the Chinese to come and learn. This factory is well-built and well-organized. The technology and training given are very good. It is worthwhile for the Orients to take pride in it,” Zhou wrote.
Photographs from the iconic Ananda Vikatan magazine depict the gathering of thousands that had congregated to welcome Zhou at the then Corporation Stadium.
S.S.Vasan (owner of Gemini Studios), joined by hundreds of his employees had greeted Zhou and taken him on a tour of the property.
Zhou and his delegation witnessed a film shooting in-progress at the studio and also a dance program by actress Padmini
“Prime Minister Zhou Enlai arrived in the then Madras on December 5, 1956 on a two-day visit. He was received at the Meenambakkam airport by Madras Governor Sri Prakasa and others. Later he was accorded a Civic Reception at the Corporation Stadium (now Nehru Stadium) the same day,” The Hindu reported.
“ Zhou also visited Mamallapuram and toured the monuments and sculptures on December 6, 1956; while also speaking to the news media on the international situation. During his visit, he also toured the famed Gemini Studio and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). Governor Sri Prakasa hosted at a banquet at the Raj Bhavan during Zhou’s only visit to Madras”.
(The featured image at the shows Premier Zhou EnLai walking through the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai)
