For decades, India’s wealthy elite sought sanctuary in dark-paneled gymkhanas—colonial throwbacks with strict codes, leather armchairs, and cricket pavilions. Often nestled in posh city neighbourhood’s or hill stations, these were places where business tycoons, army officers, and civil servants socialized, networked, and made deals over squash or golf.
However, this year took a different turn due to things rapidly shifting as status is being redefined by a new generation of young, self-made professionals, including tech innovators, designers, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. Many of them find the old colonial clubs outdated, if not inaccessible. Instead, they are joining a fresh wave of members-only spaces like Soho House, The Quorum, Jolie’s, and BLVD Club—stylish venues where luxury meets creativity and networking feels more informal.
From Mahogany to Minimalism
Places like the Bombay Gymkhana or Royal Willingdon Club still carry prestige. But they also come with old-school baggage—rigid dress codes, gendered rules, and long waiting lists that favour legacy over merit. Entire industries, including the creative sector, were historically kept out.
While these clubs once played a central role in India’s elite culture, many members of today’s generation perceive them as vestiges of the Raj. India’s economy has changed dramatically; it is now among the world’s largest, and its wealth no longer comes just from old money. A boom in start-ups and digital businesses has fuelled the rise of a younger, more diverse elite keen to spend and connect on their own terms.
A New Kind of Club Culture
Soho House, which opened its Mumbai outpost in 2018, helped spark this shift. With its ocean-facing rooftop, private cinema, and laid-back vibe, it appealed directly to creative professionals. The atmosphere was welcoming, non-hierarchical, and accessible to people who would not fit in at conventional clubs; it was not simply the décor.
The model worked. Two new branches are now in the pipeline—in Delhi and South Mumbai. Membership, according to regional director Kelly Wardingham, centres on the concept of young wealth and the desire for a solid foundation that allows individuals to elevate their personal and professional standing.
The days when Bollywood actor Feroz Khan famously denied entry to a gymkhana are a distant memory. Now, actors like Ali Fazal appear on the cover of Soho House’s in-house magazine, signalling just how much has changed.
High Demand, Limited Access
Traditional clubs remain highly sought after, but only by those who can afford to wait decades. Meanwhile, over two dozen new clubs have launched in recent years to meet growing demand. Offering everything from art events to upscale spas and business lounges, international brands like St. Regis and domestic choices like The Quorum and Jolie’s are becoming more and more popular.
According to a 2025 report by Axon Developers, India’s private club sector is growing nearly 10% per year. Nearly 800,000 Indians now fall into the high-net-worth category, a number expected to double within a few years. These people want exclusivity, but they want to define it for themselves rather than accept traditional standards.
Progress or Just New Elitism?
Despite the modern image, these new clubs are not essentially cheap. Annual memberships at Soho House start at around ₹320,000 (£2,900), putting them far out of reach for most. The gatekeeping has changed—from surname and social standing to wealth, reputation, and creative clout.
Some argue that these clubs serve as proof of progress, showcasing the value of intellect and ambition in modern India. Others perceive it as a continuation of elitism, albeit in more stylish attire. In any case, it is evident that the social environment of the nation is evolving.
The era of mahogany-and-manners may be fading, but in its place are sleek lounges and rooftop bars, where India’s new elite gather to strike deals, share ideas, and enjoy a very different kind of club culture.
