Our History
Bankipore Club, also known as Bankipur Club, is a prestigious social club located in Patna, Bihar, India. Here is a brief history of the club:
Establishment: Bankipore Club was founded in 1865, during the British colonial period. It was established to serve as a social and recreational center for British officers and the elite class in the region.
Location : The club is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, providing a scenic view and a tranquil environment for its members.
Colonial Era : During the British Raj, the club was a hub of social activity, hosting events, parties, and sports competitions. It was a place where British officials and their families could relax and socialize.
Post-Independence : After India gained independence in 1947, the club continued to operate and gradually opened its membership to Indian citizens. It retained much of its colonial charm and traditions while adapting to the changing social landscape.
Facilities : Over the years, Bankipore Club has expanded its facilities to include a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, squash courts, a library, a billiards room, a card room, and dining areas. Additionally, it offers wellness facilities like a steam bath, a sauna bath, and a jacuzzi. The club has also hosted various cultural and sporting events.
Cultural Significance : The club has played a significant role in the cultural and social life of Patna. It has been a venue for numerous important events, including literary meets, musical performances, and social gatherings.
Modern Era : Today, Bankipore Club remains one of the most prestigious clubs in Bihar, with a diverse membership that includes professionals, businessmen, and other prominent individuals. It continues to uphold its traditions while embracing modernity.
WHO WE ARE
Bankipore Club was established in the year 1865 on the bank of River Ganges at Patna, Bihar and its Founder Secretary was J.P.W.Johnstion.
Originally known as “European Club” and used exclusively by Europeans, the club was renamed “Bankipore Club” as Bankipore denoted the civil jurisdiction of Patna District.
The Bankipore Club, 1st in unified Bihar and also the 2nd oldest club in the eastern India, is one of the few remaining legacies of the British Raj and has had its moments of glory. Legendary writer E.M. Forster who stayed here gave a shadow reference to it in his famous novel “A Passage to India” as Chandrapore Club.
Legendary cricketer W G Grace used to love this place located on the banks of the Ganga. Mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary preferred to stay here when he undertook a rowing expedition across the Ganges. Legendary Cricketer Sunil Gavaskar mentioned that such an environment is not to be found anywhere not even in
Bombay for it’s location advantage and scenic view with Ganges flowing in front of the club’s lush green lawn.
The club is affiliated to many of the topmost clubs across the country and is also affiliated with India club at Dubai. The Club has one air-conditioned restaurant and one canteen and also multiple indivisual counters to serve members and guest multi cuisine food at reasonable price.
The Club has multiple sports facilities including Swimming Pool, Gymnasium, squash court, billiards & snooker, card room , bridge room and a children’s play zone. It also provides yoga training to it’s members. The century old library is star attraction of the club with an assortment of old and rare books and also books from recent times.
Club also provides open air movie screening every Sunday, and a repeat show of the same movie on the following wednesday as also old classic movie every Friday, open air screening available in only few clubs in INDIA. The Club also hosts regular Housie or Tambola on every Saturday.
Board of Directors
Gopal Khemka
Hony. Secretary
Satish Mohan Charanpahari
Hony. Treasurer
RDr. RANA NARENDRA KUMAR SINGH
Dr Sanjay Kumar Santhalia
Mahesh Agarwal
Dr Sanjeev Kumar
Sanjay Agarwal
Subhash Prasad Sinha
Bipin Kumar Sinha
Dr Om Prakash
