The India Club, an iconic lounge-cum-restaurant and bar located inside the Hotel Strand Continental in central London, is set to shut down after 70 years of serving as a cultural and historical hub for the South Asian community. The closure comes as the owners of the building plan to demolish a part of the structure to create a more modernized hotel. Many patrons of the club express sadness over the news, as the closure means losing an important part of London’s history. The India Club has been fighting against closure for years and previously won a battle to save the place, but the owners have now announced that September 17 will be its last day of operation.
The India Club holds immense historical and cultural significance. It was originally established in the 1950s as a meeting place for early Indian immigrants, allowing them to connect with others from their community. Over the years, the club evolved into a space where people could forge friendships, celebrate special occasions, and enjoy authentic Indian cuisine. Notably, India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is believed to have been among the founding members of the club. Visitors could savor dishes like dosas, butter chicken, pakoras, and traditional Indian beverages like masala chai. The interiors of the club, with its chandeliers, Formica tables, and portraits of prominent figures, offered a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of pre-independence India.
The closure of the India Club is met with disappointment by many who cherished the establishment for its sense of community and cultural connection. Historian Kusoom Vadgama, who regularly visited the club since immigrating to the UK in 1953, highlights its role in making Indians feel less alone in their new home. The club provided a vital social space where people could speak their language and find solace in familiar food. Its popularity extended beyond the Indian diaspora, attracting diverse individuals from different backgrounds. Journalist Shrabani Basu recalls the affordability and authenticity of the Indian cuisine at the club, dubbing it London’s “hidden secret” that she loves to share with visitors from India.
The closure of the India Club raises concerns about the erasure of cultural landmarks and spaces in rapidly changing cities. With the demolition and modernization plans, a piece of London’s history will be permanently lost. The closure is a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural establishments that serve as meeting points, foster community connections, and celebrate diverse cuisines. Losing such spaces can lead to a sense of displacement and disconnect among communities. It also highlights the challenge faced by immigrant communities in maintaining their cultural identity in a foreign land.
While the India Club may be closing its doors, its legacy will endure through the memories and stories shared by its patrons. The club’s significance in bridging the gap between different cultures and providing a taste of home for Indians in London cannot be understated. It served as a testament to the resilience and vibrant heritage of the South Asian community. As the city bids farewell to the India Club, it is a reminder to cherish and support the remaining cultural establishments that continue to contribute to the diversity and richness of London’s social fabric.
The closure of the India Club also serves as a call to action for preserving and protecting cultural landmarks. It is crucial to recognize the value of such spaces, acknowledge their contribution to the community, and find ways to safeguard them against displacement and redevelopment. With the increasing pace of urban development, it is important to strike a balance between progress and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage. Without these conscious efforts, the loss of such cherished establishments will continue to impact the communities they once served.
The closure of the India Club marks the end of an era for London and the South Asian community. It underscores the need for continued support for cultural spaces and the recognition of their importance in fostering a sense of belonging and preserving heritage for future generations to appreciate. Let us remember the India Club for its rich history and the memories it created, and strive to protect similar establishments that contribute to the social and cultural fabric of our cities.
