This article explores the historical origins of club culture in India, particularly in Calcutta during colonial times. It compares the culture of messes, which were primarily for upper-caste, male students, to the contemporary club and gymkhana culture in India. The recent controversy surrounding cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues and her father's alleged "conversion" activities at a Mumbai gymkhana highlights the powerful role these institutions play in determining social hierarchies and notions of respectability. Ultimately, club membership is not just about access to amenities, but also about subscribing to certain societal norms and values.
Jemimah Rodrigues and the Khar Gymkhana: A Tale of Social Exclusion
Background
Club culture in India has deep-rooted historical origins, particularly in the city of Calcutta during colonial times. The establishment of exclusive clubs and gymkhanas was initially limited to upper-caste, male students. These institutions served as spaces for socializing, recreation, and networking.
In contemporary India, clubs and gymkhanas continue to play a significant role in determining social hierarchies and notions of respectability. They offer exclusive amenities and services, often catering to the elite and affluent.
The Jemimah Rodrigues Incident
In 2022, cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues faced controversy when she and her father were allegedly asked to leave the Khar Gymkhana in Mumbai. The alleged reason was that her father was conducting "conversion" activities, which were perceived as violative of the club's norms.
The incident sparked outrage and debate, highlighting the deep-seated biases and discriminatory practices that persist within certain social institutions in India.
FAQs
1. Why was Jemimah Rodrigues asked to leave the Khar Gymkhana? Allegedly, her father was conducting "conversion" activities, which were seen as violating the club's norms.
2. What do these institutions represent? Club culture in India often represents social hierarchies and notions of respectability, with exclusive membership being a symbol of status and privilege.
3. What are the historical roots of club culture in India? Club culture in India has its origins in the colonial era, when exclusive clubs and gymkhanas were established for upper-caste, male students.
4. How has club culture evolved in contemporary India? Contemporary clubs and gymkhanas continue to cater to the elite and affluent, offering exclusive amenities and services. However, they also face scrutiny for their exclusionary practices.
5. What are the implications of the Jemimah Rodrigues incident for Indian society? The incident highlights the prevalence of deep-seated biases and discriminatory practices within certain social institutions in India. It also raises questions about the need for inclusivity and equality in all aspects of society.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin will be attending the grand celebration of Mupperum Vizha, which marks the birth anniversary of party founder CN Annadurai, social reformer Periyar, and DMK's founding day. Several prestigious awards, including the Periyar Award for Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, will be presented during the event, which has been designed like a fortress with a capacity to seat one lakh people. The stage is dominated by portraits of Chief Minister Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, along with banners highlighting the achievements of the Tamil Nadu government.
The Vantara zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre, established by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, was under scrutiny by the Supreme Court following allegations of irregularities. On 15 September 2025, the Court accepted the findings of the special investigation team (SIT) in a "sealed cover," concluding that there were no violations of various laws and regulations. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed admiration for the justice system's rare display of efficiency in this case, but also raised questions about the use of sealed covers in court proceedings.
The District Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Urban Development & Housing, has officially kicked off the Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 campaign in Ziro, India. The initiative aims to promote mass participation in cleanliness and waste management activities, with the goal of making Ziro a model of hygiene and environmental stewardship. The launch event, attended by government officials and members of the public, also saw the administration taking the Swachhata Pledge to reaffirm their commitment to a "Clean India, Green India". Stay tuned for upcoming activities and events leading up to Gandhi Jayanti on October 2.
In a dramatic turn of events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was stopped from accessing flood-hit villages on the India-Pakistan border due to safety concerns. A three-week-long investigation into allegations against Reliance Foundation's Vantara wildlife centre found no evidence of wrongdoing, prompting the Supreme Court to close the case. Forest officials in Madhya Pradesh are seeking answers from an IRS officer and his wife, who are accused of building a resort in an ecologically sensitive zone. Stay updated with these and other news stories on the Indian Express.
Rahul Gandhi, who was on a visit to flood-hit villages in Amritsar and Gurdaspur, was stopped by police from crossing the Ravi river to the "zero line" villages on the Indo-Pak border. The Congress leader had spent the day assessing damage and meeting with victims before being told it was unsafe to attempt the boat crossing. This comes after the Supreme Court closed a case involving allegations against the Reliance Foundation's wildlife rescue centre in Gujarat. Meanwhile, forest officials have sought clarification from an IRS officer and his wife for allegedly building a hotel/resort in an ecosensitive zone at Panna Tiger Reserve. Stay updated with breaking news on our live blog on Instagram.
Global leaders take to social media to send well wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday. With the upcoming national election and ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, world leaders hope for continued success and prosperity for both Modi and the nation. India's growing presence on the global stage is recognized and celebrated by leaders across the world, showing the significance and influence of the country's political landscape.
Today, September 17, marks the birthday of India’s Prime Minister and influential global leader, Narendra Modi. As he turns another year older, people from all over the world are sharing warm wishes, heartfelt messages, and inspiring quotes to honor his dedication and leadership to the nation. With a dominating presence on social media, PM Modi's birthday images are the perfect way to extend your wishes and celebrate his special day.
As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates his 75th birthday, world leaders, including former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sent messages of congratulations and appreciation. In their messages, they praised PM Modi for his leadership and his role in strengthening India's position on the global stage. In a phone call, President Trump and PM Modi also discussed important global issues and their commitment to further enhancing India-US relations.
On his 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received warm wishes and praise from President Droupadi Murmu and leaders across party lines. Murmu praised Modi for instilling a culture of achieving great goals in the country and wished for his ongoing good health and leadership. Other leaders, like Yogi Adityanath and Nitish Kumar, also thanked Modi for his contributions to India's progress and development. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her cabinet colleagues also participated in a blood donation camp organized as part of the BJP-led city government's 'Sewa Pakhwada' to commemorate the PM's birthday.
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced the government's plans to bring an impeachment motion against Allahabad High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma, who is embroiled in a corruption case and has been indicted by a Supreme Court-appointed committee. Rijiju emphasized the need for all political parties to work together in this endeavor, stating that corruption in the judiciary should not be viewed through a political lens. He has already reached out to major parties and plans to engage with smaller parties before the Monsoon session of Parliament begins on July 21.