Delhi’s oldest club, Roshanara, which opened, was sealed in the year 2023
The 100-year-old Roshanara Club, which was built by the British, is now open for Delhiites. On Sunday, the Roshanara Club wasopened to the public after renovation. Established on 15 August 1922, this club used to be a social hub for British officers. Let us tell you that Roshanara Begum was the third daughter of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. In the year 2023, it was sealed due to the expiry of the club’s lease. After nearly two years of renovation, this club has now been officially opened to the public once again. On this occasion, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena said that this ancient club, with its heritage colonial charm, archaic architecture, and thrilling sports activities, is now a popular venue for Delhiites once again. What is the history of Roshanara Club? The iconic Roshanara Club holds a special place in the history of Indian cricket. It was here that the first-ever meeting of Indian cricket administrators took place. In 1928, within the prestigious walls of this heritage club, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was officially established as a society, laying the foundation for Indian cricket’s governing body. Adding to its legacy, the first practice match between India and England was played on this very ground in 1931, marking a historic moment that signaled India’s growing presence in international cricket. Apart from this, Ranji matches were also organized here. According to reports, this club is spread over an area of about 23.25 acres. Not only this, but this club is also a part of the vast Roshanara Bagh spread over 57 acres. Which is considered to be one of the big gardens of Delhi. It is said that Princess Roshanara Begum was not fond of the constant hustle and bustle of the Red Fort, which led her to seek peace and solitude away from the royal chaos, inspiring the creation of her own serene retreat. That is why, around the year 1650, a grand and beautiful Mughal garden was built about three kilometers away from the boundary wall of Shahjahanabad—which not only became a place of peace but also a symbol of royal pomp. What changes have been made in the club What are the fees and membership of Roshnara Club? At present, no official information has been made public by DDA regarding the membership fee, but it is believed that, Roshnara Club will now be available for membership to common citizens as well, which earlier used to be only for the prominent people.