The Golf Club had earlier imposed restrictions on Indian attire for entry, and similar prohibitions were reported at two other clubs in Lucknow, namely “Gymkhana Club and M.B. Club.” In light of this matter, Prashant Bhatia, former Chairman of IIA, paid a visit to the Gymkhana Club and met the Club’s Secretary, Ashok Kumar Agrawal, to submit a formal memorandum. Prashant Bhatia appeared at the Gymkhana Club wearing traditional Indian Kurta Pajama.
Prashant Bhatia apprised Secretary Ashok Kumar Agrawal about the situation concerning the ban on Indian attire, not just at the Golf Club but also at other clubs on Indian soil, which he considered an insult to Indian culture and identity. It seems as though we are still lingering in the mentality of subservience from the colonial era, where looking down upon Indians and their traditional attire is still prevalent.
Prashant Bhatia emphasized that while the world at large is embracing Indian culture and heritage with respect, the unfortunate fact that such prohibitions on Indian attire still persist in India itself is regrettable. The ban on Indian attire is an affront to our culture. We have been independent for 75 years, yet how much longer will it take for us to break free from the mentality of subjugation?
The Secretary of Gymkhana Club, Shri Ashok Agrawal, clarified to Prashant Bhatia that there is no such restriction on Indian attire for entry to the club. Lucknow is known for its hospitality, and the Gymkhana Club holds its members and their guests in high regard, treating them with utmost respect regardless of their attire. There is no discrimination or any disrespect shown towards those who wear traditional Indian clothing; rather, they are warmly welcomed just as if they were entering their own drawing rooms.
The Secretary further informed Prashant Bhatia that the earlier ban on Kurta Pajama attire, which was deemed inappropriate, has already been abolished, and the rules have been amended.
On this occasion, Prashant Bhatia expressed his gratitude to the Gymkhana Club’s Secretary, Ashok Kumar Agrawal, and the members of the executive committee. He expressed hope that this inspiring initiative will serve as a catalyst, and other clubs across Lucknow and the country will follow suit, putting an end to such disparities and upholding the honor of Indian culture.
During this meeting, Prashant Bhatia was accompanied by Gymkhana Club member Anand Shekhar.
