LAHORE: Established in 1927, Lahore’s Cosmopolitan Club remains a vital part of the city’s cultural and historical landscape, even after more than a hundred years. Set up during British colonial rule, the club was founded to cater to the social needs of the educated local population at a time when access to British-only clubs was denied to Indians.
As movements for rights and social change gained momentum among educated youth in the early 20th century, urban clubs began emerging across cities as spaces for intellectual debate, cultural exchange, and community engagement. Lahore’s Cosmopolitan Club was born out of the same spirit, providing a platform for open dialogue and cultural activities.
The club was inaugurated by the then-Governor General William Hailey. Speaking about its origins, the club’s Secretary General Tariq Mehmood Malik explains, “Cosmopolitan clubs exist in many countries, and the establishment of this club in early 20th-century Lahore was a response to the exclusion of Indians from British-only clubs. The educated class in Lahore, especially civil servants, needed a space for their social interactions, and this club fulfilled that role.”
The first president of the Cosmopolitan Club was none other than Sir Abdul Rashid, the first Chief Justice of Pakistan, who also administered the oath to Muhammad Ali Jinnah as the country’s first Governor General. His association with the club remains a testament to its historical significance. Even today, the club retains an air of classic elegance.
Architecturally, the building stands as a fine example of colonial-era European design. The front features an arched entryway in a circular structure, while the rear consists of a more elevated block. This architectural grandeur mirrors the club’s longstanding status as a distinguished venue for social and cultural gatherings.
Professor Mehboob Hussain, Chairman of the History Department at Punjab University, notes, “The original aim of the Cosmopolitan Club was to offer the elite a place for social gatherings, and even today, it continues to be a hub for cultural, literary and intellectual activities.” Whether it’s book launches or poetry recitals, the club’s events remain lively and well-attended.
Members enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities, including four tennis courts that come alive in the evenings, as well as indoor games such as badminton, table tennis and snooker. For fitness enthusiasts, a well-equipped gym is also available on the premises.
Despite the fast-paced development of modern Lahore, the Cosmopolitan Club seems to exist outside the rush of time. Nestled in the heart of Jinnah Garden along Mall Road, it stands as a living witness to the city’s evolving narrative.
The club has not only played a role in shaping Lahore’s social and cultural fabric, but also serves as a symbol of its old-world charm and prestige. Even after a century, its reputation and relevance remain intact.
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