Founded in 1895, the Tollygunge Club, Calcutta, is the only “country club” of its kind in India and is ranked among the top 20 clubs in the world. It is spread over a hundred acres with one of the oldest clubhouse, which is over 220 years old, wearing a posh British vibe. Tollygunge Club started as an equestrian institution devoted only to riding and all sorts of equestrian sports. It now offers other topnotch sports facilities like golf, tennis, squash, indoor and outdoor swimming and amateur equestrian sports. There is also a well-equipped gym with professional trainers, a bridge room, a well-stocked library, a unisex salon and more specialised facilities.
t2 had a brief chat with the new president of the Tollygunge Club, Captain Sanjiv Dhir, where he shared his views on the future of the club.
How long have you been associated with the club? And how has the experience been for so long?
I have been a member of this club since 1986. It has been a wonderful experience for my family and now my grandchildren who also enjoy the place. We are really lucky to be part of this great institution for this long.
How has the club evolved throughout the years?
Sometimes one feels that time has just stood still at Tolly. Yes, a lot of changes have taken place to move along with the times. We have tried very hard to keep the environment just as it is and even tried to make it more evergreen. The mix of the young and the elderly is seamless. The varied activities and events have increased to cater to all members. The Tolly Fest was an excellent example.
What are your further plans and wish list for the club, as the president?
Plans are to give as much as possible to the members without altering the basic ethos of the club. To make it the best go-to location in India. We are a sports club and wish all the facilities to be world-class.
How was your experience at the club during the pandemic?
I was not the president then. But the then presidents and committee had a harrowing time, as you can imagine the basic expenses and maintenance of this huge property and with no earnings.
What is your message to the members?
Dear members, please enjoy the club and all the facilities to the fullest and nurture the club like your own little baby