Inside Closed Doors

From exclusivity to experience, private clubs in India’s top luxury hotels now blend design, gastronomy, wellness, and connection

- Geetika Sachdev

Once, private clubs in India were symbols of exclusivity and hierarchy—a sanctuary for the elite to gather over drinks, cigars, or quiet conversation. Membership signified privilege, and experiences were formal, curated more for appearances than for engagement. These clubs had a distinct charm, but they offered limited connection to the vibrancy outside their walls.

Today, that landscape has transformed. Hotel-based private clubs are no longer just about status; they are about experiences, community and discovery. Spaces like ARQ by The Leela, The Chambers at Taj Mahal, New Delhi, Modernist at Four Seasons Mumbai, and The Penthouse at St. Regis Mumbai are at the forefront of this evolution, weaving in culture, cuisine, design, wellness, and conversation.

According to Dezerv, private club membership in India now exceeds 11,200 members, with the market projected to reach Rs 941 crore by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 8.27%. This surge reflects a rising appetite for immersive luxury—where belonging and engagement matter as much as prestige.

Membership today isn't just about pride; it's about joining a circle where curiosity, creativity, and conversation thrive. These clubs deliver experiences that linger—a carefully curated meal, an inspiring discussion, or a moment of reflection.

Belonging and discovery

For today's luxury traveller, the allure of a private club lies in connection and shared experiences. “Luxury is no longer about static indulgence; it is about living, belonging, and constant discovery,” says Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. “With ARQ by The Leela, we fulfil the evolving needs of today’s luxury consumers, who seek not just the finest hospitality but an ongoing lifestyle experience.”