Developing economy and growing businesses are gradually changing the definition of some elite and posh private clubs in India. They are no more seen as mere spots where formal association of people with similar interests happen, or a place for late-night parties, food and entertainment. Rather, taking themselves a notch up the level of swish and socioeconomic position, a bunch of clubs have mushroomed across India, where memberships cannot be bought, but only earned—preferably by the HNIs. These ‘by invite-only’ business members’ clubs offer a host of amenities and spaces dedicated to work or leisure.
On this emerging trend of high-profile corporates joining private business clubs in India, senior luxury journalist Neeti Mehra says, “These new boutique clubs are far removed from the stuffy old boys’ clubs and are modern enclaves for the new breed of entrepreneurs and professionals.”
Mumbai’s newest private address, The Indus Club, has already piqued the interest of Indian CEOs and business magnates. Launched a few months ago, it is the city’s first standalone members-only club. “Membership is by invite and referral only and a strict screening procedure is followed. We also offer reciprocals with international clubs. So, our member can enter the Tower Club in Singapore, or St. James’s Club in London, or other clubs in Los Angeles and New York,” says The Indus Club founder, Harish Thawani.
Equus is another popular by invite-only business lounge at the St. Regis, Mumbai, where experiences are tailor-made for its members.
Leading the pack of in-house private clubs are ITC Hotels’ Prive and Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris (THPRS) group’s The Chambers. While Club Prive is a private enclave purposely built for business leaders, entry at The Chambers is extended to a select few at the discretion of the managing director of the THPRS group.