After the government eviction order on Delhi Gymkhana Club, sharp questions are now being raised about the racial exclusivity of the colonial-era ‘Breach Candy Club’ located in Mumbai’s upscale southern area. Even in independent India, the actual control of this trust and management remains reserved only for European citizens.
Amid the recent strict action taken by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and government departments against Delhi Gymkhana Club, the historic ‘Breach Candy Club’ (Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust) located on Mumbai’s upscale southern Bhulabhai Desai Road has come under scrutiny once again for its European dominance, racial, and discriminatory rules. A Congress MP had also recounted an old story related to this club. He said that as a child, he was thrown out of the club’s swimming pool simply for being Indian.
This extremely expensive and luxurious club was established in 1878 as a ‘whites-only’ facility for the entertainment of only European residents of Bombay. Spread over four acres of highly valuable and prime land right opposite the Arabian Sea, the club’s main attraction is its massive outdoor saltwater pool, which is specially built in the shape of the geographical map of undivided British India. Its members are known for the grilled seafood and luxurious amenities at the upscale restaurant and bar facing the sea.
Delhi Gymkhana Club
The Delhi Gymkhana Club, established in 1913, is a prestigious social and sports club located in the heart of New Delhi, India. Originally founded during the British colonial era for British officers and elite Indian royalty, it became a symbol of exclusivity and leisure, offering facilities like golf, tennis, and fine dining. Post-independence, the club has continued to uphold its historic traditions while remaining a private members-only institution.
Breach Candy Club
Breach Candy Club is a historic and prestigious members-only social and sports club located in Mumbai, India, founded in 1927. Originally established by the British as a swimming and recreational club, it has since become an iconic institution known for its sea-facing pool and colonial-era charm. Today, it remains a popular venue for social gatherings and sporting events, reflecting Mumbai’s cosmopolitan heritage.
Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust
The Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust, located in Mumbai, India, is a historic sea-facing swimming pool established in the 1920s. Originally built as a private club for British residents during the colonial era, it later opened to all members after India’s independence. The site remains a popular recreational spot, known for its unique saltwater pool fed directly from the Arabian Sea.
Bhulabhai Desai Road
Bhulabhai Desai Road is a prominent thoroughfare in South Mumbai, India, named after the noted lawyer, politician, and independence activist Bhulabhai Desai. Historically, the road was originally known as Warden Road before being renamed in his honor. Today, it is lined with upscale residential buildings, diplomatic missions, and luxury boutiques, reflecting the city’s colonial-era and modern urban development.
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Delhi Gymkhana Club
The Delhi Gymkhana Club, established in 1913 during the British colonial era, is a prestigious social and sports club located in the heart of New Delhi. Originally founded for British officers and Indian royalty, it served as a hub for elite social gatherings and recreational activities like polo, cricket, and tennis. Today, it remains an exclusive members-only club, preserving its colonial-era architecture and traditions while continuing to host sporting events and cultural functions.
Breach Candy Club
Breach Candy Club is a historic social and sports club located in the Cumballa Hill area of Mumbai, India. Established in the late 19th century, it originally served as a recreational spot for the British colonial elite and later became a prominent members-only club for the city’s affluent. Its name derives from the nearby Breach Candy beach, and the club is known for its elegant colonial architecture, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust
The Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust is a historic members-only swimming club located in Mumbai, India, established in 1908. Originally built as a sea-facing bathing facility during the British colonial era, it was later renovated and expanded, becoming a popular social and recreational venue. The trust continues to operate the pool and clubhouse, maintaining its heritage while serving the local community.
Bhulabhai Desai Road
Bhulabhai Desai Road, located in Mumbai’s upscale Breach Candy area, was named after the renowned Indian lawyer and freedom fighter Bhulabhai Desai. Historically, it was originally called “Warden Road” and later renamed to honor Desai, who famously defended the Indian National Army soldiers in the Red Fort trials. Today, the road is known for its diplomatic residences, luxury boutiques, and iconic landmarks like the Mahalaxmi Temple.