ack in the day, it was a hub for the rapidly growing British South Asian community in the aftermath of Indian independence and the Partition. The Indian Journalist Association, Indian Workers Association and Indian Socialist Group of Britain were just some of the groups that used the space for their events and activities. In fact, for the longest time, the building also served as a base for the new wings of the India League, which ran a free legal advice bureau, and a research and study unit

Gyanaprakasam Joseph, fondly referred to as Joseph, was head waiter at the India Club for 37 years. He held all his family occasions at the Club, including his wedding celebration. The public held a great attachment to him and on his passing, an obituary appeared in The Guardian

(Expreme right) Doris Mannell started working in the bar of the India Club in 1964 and refused to retire until she was touching 90

The three strong women who ran the India Club. (From left) Christine, head waitress, C Chauhan, who cooked in the kitchen and Doris

Motivational keynote speaker and trainer Smita Tharoor with her mother Lily at the India Club.  Pic Courtesy/Smita Tharoor