Iconic The India Club in London Announces Closure This Sept

The India Club in London, also known as a 'home away from home' for many Indians in the UK, will permanently shut down next month after losing a demolition case.

The charmingly eccentric India Club at 143 Strand has remained much the same since its opening over 50 years ago.

Hidden up a flight of stairs, India Club is part of London's history. It was originally set up by the India League, to further Indo-British friendship in the post-independence era, and it quickly became a base for groups serving the Asian community. The India Club at 143 Strand came to be recognised as a welcoming space where visitors could seek advice, connect culturally and speak their native language.

Proprietors Yadgar Marker and his daughter Phiroza launched a "Save India Club” appeal as they fought to keep it going but in vain, the group has announced its closure.

"It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the closure of the India Club, with our last day open to the public on September 17," they shared.

At a time when the daily lives and experiences of Asians in Britain could be difficult, 143 Strand was a significant focal point for the subcontinent diaspora communities. For a generation of pioneering migrants, it was a home away from home.

The interior of 143 Strand, particularly the characterful and distinct entrance, stairwells, reception area, first floor bar and second floor restaurant, remain in the same condition as they were during the occupation of the property by the India League.

Sharing a post on X, MP and politician Shashi Tharoor shared, I am sorry to hear that the India Club, London, is to close permanently in September. As the son of one of its founders, I lament the passing of an institution that served so many Indians (and not only Indians) for nearly three-quarters of a century. For many students, journalists and travellers, it was a home away from home, offering simple and good quality Indian food at affordable prices as well as a convivial atmosphere to meet and maintain friendships.”