Members only: India's rich and famous ditch old-school clubs for exclusive hangouts

For many years, India’s most exclusive clubs were places where only the country’s wealthiest and most powerful people could go. These clubs, called gymkhanas or private members-only clubs, were built during the time when the British ruled India. They had strict rules about who could join, and most members came from old, rich families or held important jobs in business, government, or the military. Inside, the clubs looked very traditional, with dark wood furniture, fancy decorations, and staff dressed in uniforms. Members would play sports like squash or golf, smoke cigars, and make business deals.

But India is changing quickly. The country’s economy is growing, and many young people are becoming rich by starting their own companies, especially in technology. These new millionaires want clubs that are more modern and open to different kinds of people. They don’t want to follow old rules about dress codes or family background. Instead, they want to meet other creative people, learn new skills, and relax in a comfortable place. One example is Soho House, a club that started in London and now has a location in Mumbai. Soho House is very popular because it offers things like a rooftop pool, a gym, private movie rooms, and many food options. Members can also attend events, meet mentors, and find investors for their businesses.

Unlike the old clubs, Soho House and other new clubs do not care about your family history or how much money you inherited. They look for people who have achieved something on their own or have big ideas for the future. However, these clubs are still very expensive. For example, a year’s membership at Soho House costs much more than most people in India earn in a month. Even though more clubs are opening, they are still only for a small group of people. The number of rich people in India is growing fast, and this is creating a big business opportunity for new clubs. But for most Indians, these clubs are still out of reach. The rise of these modern clubs shows how India is changing, with more people becoming rich and looking for new ways to network and enjoy life, even as most people cannot afford such luxury.