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| Jorhat Gymkhana Club, Assam (Courtesy: Hardeep Singh Matharu) |
Nestled in the heart of Assam’s lush tea gardens, Jorhat Gymkhana Club isn’t just a relic of colonial times; it’s a living testimony to the changing landscapes of history, culture, and human spirit. Imagine a misty morning, where the aroma of freshly brewed Assam tea fills the air, and the soft thud of a polo mallet resonates from afar. In that moment, you’re standing at the threshold of the club, transported to a world where the legacies of the British planters and the Assamese elite intertwine. More than just a club, this space is where traditions are celebrated, sportsmanship is revered, and the warmth of human connection takes precedence over its opulent past. As we journey through its corridors, it becomes clear that Jorhat Gymkhana is not just about the horse races or the majestic architecture — it’s about the people whose stories are woven into the very fabric of this iconic institution.
Founded in 1876 by D. Slimmon, a British planter, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club is one of the oldest clubs in Asia, and its history mirrors the transformation of Assam’s tea industry. With the rise of tea plantations during the British colonial period, the need for a social and recreational hub emerged, and thus the club was born. It started as a place for British tea planters to relax, but over time, it has grown into a community space for people from all walks of life. Today, it stands as a monument to a bygone era, yet it continues to breathe life into Jorhat’s modern identity.
The Jorhat Gymkhana Club has served as a venue for polo and horse racing for over 140 years, maintaining the legacy of these thrilling sports. Polo, in particular, has deep roots in the region, with the game being founded in the northeastern state of Manipur, where it was originally known as Sagol Kangjei. This dynamic sport involves two teams of players on horseback, using mallets to strike a wooden ball into the opposing team’s goal. It requires both the rider and horse to demonstrate remarkable agility and coordination, blending grace with speed. Historically associated with nobility and skill, polo remains a prominent activity at the club. The fields still echo with the clatter of hooves, as matches continue to draw spectators, keeping the spirit of this regal sport alive in Assam.
Golf, too, plays a central role in the club's identity. The club is home to a lush 9-hole golf course, which is one of the oldest in Asia, offering a unique playing experience with its flat terrain. Originally located in the middle of the racecourse, the club served as a parade ground and camping area before being relocated to its present site in 1885. Over the years, Jorhat Gymkhana Club has hosted several prestigious golf tournaments, and its facilities also include a gentleman's bar, a swimming pool, and billiards tables. The club is not only a haven for sports but also a popular venue for social gatherings, events, and celebrations. It has even gained recognition for organizing C.K. Naidu’s Under-19 Cricket Tournament, with its cricket ground, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club Ground, accommodating up to 8,000 spectators. The ground, with its turf wicket, is frequently used by the Khelmati Sports Club for cricket matches, further cementing the club’s role as a sporting and cultural landmark.
Yet, beyond the sports and the colonial architecture, the real beauty of Jorhat Gymkhana Club lies in the stories of the people who have passed through its gates. The old-timers, with their tales of legendary polo matches and unforgettable tea estate gatherings, give the place its soul. Whether it's a retired tea planter reminiscing about the simpler times or a local family enjoying an afternoon at the club’s tea room, every individual who steps inside the club becomes a part of its ongoing narrative.
The human connection to this club extends beyond its members. It also intertwines with the workers, many of whom belong to generations of families who have worked in and around the tea estates. They bring life to the place, from the skilled groundsmen who maintain the horse tracks and golf course to the kitchen staff, whose traditional Assamese fare keeps members and guests coming back for more.
Jorhat Gymkhana has evolved with time, adapting to modern needs while preserving its rich legacy. Its role as a community hub has expanded to include cultural events, weddings, and even film screenings, making it not just a historical relic but an essential part of Assam’s social fabric. It’s a place where the past and present coexist harmoniously, where history is revered, but progress is embraced.
In a rapidly modernizing world, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club stands as a beacon of continuity, a reminder of the cultural and social legacy that tea has left in Assam. With its charm, history, and vibrant human stories, this club continues to inspire and intrigue, inviting every visitor to become part of its unfolding journey.
How To Reach Jorhat Gymkhana Club
Getting to the Jorhat Gymkhana Club is convenient, whether you’re arriving by train, air, or from the city center. The club is situated about 2.5 kilometers from the Jorhat Railway Station, and it takes roughly 6 minutes to reach via Club Road. Visitors coming by train can easily catch a cab, taxi, or local bus from the station for a quick ride to the club. If you’re flying into the region, Jorhat Airport is located around 5.2 kilometers from the Gymkhana Club, and the journey via Jail Road takes approximately 14 minutes. For air travelers, cabs and taxis are readily available at the airport to take you directly to the club. Alternatively, visitors from Jorhat city center can hop on a local bus or grab a taxi. The city center is approximately 4 kilometers from the club, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists looking to experience this historic venue.
