In India, a shift is taking place among the wealthy elite who are moving away from traditional Raj-era private clubs and gymkhanas to trendy new hangouts. For decades, these exclusive clubs served as the playgrounds for old money—business tycoons, bureaucrats, and actors—but now they feel outdated in a rapidly evolving society eager to leave behind colonial legacies.
The rise of a vibrant economy is leading to the emergence of modern members-only clubs, aptly catering to a fresh wave of successful entrepreneurs and creators. A key player in this transformation is the international chain Soho House, which has plans to launch more locations in Delhi and Mumbai following the success of its first club on Juhu Beach, where young innovators can mingle freely without the rigid hierarchies of traditional establishments.
Unlike their predecessor, Soho House champions inclusivity—allowing members from diverse backgrounds to connect, share ideas, and access opportunities for collaboration. The appeal lies not just in luxurious amenities like rooftop pools and cinemas but also in the chance to network with influencers from various sectors.
However, the craving for these modern clubs highlights the dwindling supply of colonial-era options, often characterized by long waiting lists. As demand continues to soar, numerous new clubs are entering the market, signaling a boom in a sector expected to grow rapidly post-Covid.
Despite increasing accessibility in membership based on achievements rather than lineage, the cost of entry remains steep and unattainable for the average Indian—a reflection of wealth disparity in a country of over 1.4 billion people. With India's luxury sector thriving, this trend showcases the rise of a new elite while also revealing the inequalities that still persist.
