Bombay Gymkhana President Sanjiv Saran Mehra with past president Khalid Ansari during the unveiling of Bombay Gymkhana’s Coffee Table Book The Journey So Far at the book launch. Mumbai: Marking a monumental milestone in India's sporting history, the historic Bombay Gymkhana has unveiled a commemorative coffee table book titled "The Journey So Far." Launched at the club's Dining Hall, the 284-page publication chronicles the institution's remarkable 150-year legacy, celebrating its profound impact on the nation's athletic and cultural landscape since its inception in 1875. With rich contributions from club members, the book weaves together rare archival photographs, historical records, and contemporary imagery. It offers a comprehensive visual journey across generations, showcasing the evolution of the club's facilities, teams, and distinguished sporting personalities. The publication captures defining moments that have inextricably linked the Gymkhana to the broader narrative of Indian sport. Prominently featured is the club's proud association with India’s first-ever home Test match, played against England in 1933. Beyond cricket, the book sheds light on the club's foundational role in the development of Indian rugby since 1890, as well as its deep-rooted polo traditions. The sport of polo, marked by the establishment of the prestigious Bombay Gymkhana Polo Challenge Cup in 1882, has even experienced a celebrated revival at the club in recent years. Adding to these historical accolades, the Department of Posts recently released a commemorative postage stamp to formally honour the institution's 150th anniversary. For over a century and a half, the Bombay Gymkhana has evolved alongside the bustling metropolis of Mumbai while fiercely guarding its athletic traditions. Speaking at the unveiling, Club President Sanjiv Saran Mehra noted that the history of the Gymkhana is closely intertwined with the sporting history of the country. He emphasized that the book is an essential effort to preserve these memories while reminding members of their responsibility to inspire future generations. The launch event drew heartfelt tributes from Indian sports icons whose own legendary journeys have crossed paths with the Gymkhana. Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar described his membership as one of his most cherished experiences, recalling happy hours spent playing both badminton and cricket on the premises. Paying homage to past legends like Nariman Jamshedji Contractor, Gavaskar noted that the new book perfectly captures the club's essence, stating that the institution is "always classy." Former international badminton player Uday Pawar also highlighted the global stature of the Gymkhana. Pawar reminded attendees that the club's courts have hosted former All England and World champions such as Wong Pen Soon, Erland Kops, and Rudy Hartono, cementing its status as the most iconic sports club in India. Adding to the praise, former India Hockey captain and Olympic gold medallist M. M. Somaya described the venue as a sportsman’s paradise, commending the management for successfully striking a delicate balance between deep-rooted tradition and modern sporting amenities. Ultimately, "The Journey So Far" serves as much more than a historical record. As Bombay Gymkhana turns the page on its first century and a half, the publication stands as a visual reflection of an institution that continuously adapts while safeguarding its core values, reaffirming a steadfast dedication to athletic excellence and community.Bombay Gymkhana Chronicles 150 Years of Sporting Heritage with Commemorative Book, 'The Journey So Far' MUMBAI — Marking a monumental milestone in India's sporting history, the historic Bombay Gymkhana has unveiled a commemorative coffee table book titled "The Journey So Far." Launched at the club's Dining Hall, the 284-page publication chronicles the institution's remarkable 150-year legacy, celebrating its profound impact on the nation's athletic and cultural landscape since its inception in 1875. Edited, designed, and printed by Spenta Multimedia Pvt. Ltd., with rich contributions from club members, the book weaves together rare archival photographs, historical records, and contemporary imagery. It offers a comprehensive visual journey across generations, showcasing the evolution of the club's facilities, teams, and distinguished sporting personalities. The publication captures defining moments that have inextricably linked the Gymkhana to the broader narrative of Indian sport. Prominently featured is the club's proud association with India’s first-ever home Test match, played against England in 1933. Beyond cricket, the book sheds light on the club's foundational role in the development of Indian rugby since 1890, as well as its deep-rooted polo traditions. The sport of polo, marked by the establishment of the prestigious Bombay Gymkhana Polo Challenge Cup in 1882, has even experienced a celebrated revival at the club in recent years. Adding to these historical accolades, the Department of Posts recently released a commemorative postage stamp to formally honour the institution's 150th anniversary. For over a century and a half, the Bombay Gymkhana has evolved alongside the bustling metropolis of Mumbai while fiercely guarding its athletic traditions. Speaking at the unveiling, Club President Sanjiv Saran Mehra noted that the history of the Gymkhana is closely intertwined with the sporting history of the country. He emphasized that the book is an essential effort to preserve these memories while reminding members of their responsibility to inspire future generations. The launch event drew heartfelt tributes from Indian sports icons whose own legendary journeys have crossed paths with the Gymkhana. Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar described his membership as one of his most cherished experiences, recalling happy hours spent playing both badminton and cricket on the premises. Paying homage to past legends like Nariman Jamshedji Contractor, Gavaskar noted that the new book perfectly captures the club's essence, stating that the institution is "always classy." Former international badminton player Uday Pawar also highlighted the global stature of the Gymkhana. Pawar reminded attendees that the club's courts have hosted former All England and World champions such as Wong Pen Soon, Erland Kops, and Rudy Hartono, cementing its status as the most iconic sports club in India. Adding to the praise, former India Hockey captain and Olympic gold medallist M. M. Somaya described the venue as a sportsman’s paradise, commending the management for successfully striking a delicate balance between deep-rooted tradition and modern sporting amenities. Ultimately, "The Journey So Far" serves as much more than a historical record. As Bombay Gymkhana turns the page on its first century and a half, the publication stands as a visual reflection of an institution that continuously adapts while safeguarding its core values, reaffirming a steadfast dedication to athletic excellence and community.
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