Breaking a 117-year-old tradition, Kasturi Raha has taken charge as the first lady president of Calcutta Club Limited, marking a historic moment for the institution. The club began admitting lady permanent members only in 2006–2007, and Raha herself joined in 2008 as the third woman member. Since then, the number of lady members has grown to over 300.

While Raha’s presidential office now keeps her busy, she fondly recalls roaming through the lounges, dining areas, and elegant spaces of the heritage building. As president, she plans to continue the club’s signature events — from Agomoni and Bijoya-Diwali festivities to the much-loved Bakery Carnival, Christmas celebrations, and the annual classical music week. She also hopes to expand her brainchild, the Heritage Fashion Walk, to highlight the club’s rich legacy. Raha’s presidency promises a celebration of inclusivity, heritage, and the spirit of fellowship. A t2 chat with the new president.

What motivated you to take on the responsibility of becoming the club’s president?

I joined the management committee in 2013 as the first female member, as I felt it was essential that women participate in running the club. I believed that as a permanent member, I should serve and contribute to the club’s governance. After serving on committees and contesting positions over the years, I decided to stand for the presidency in 2025. With hard work and God’s grace, I was elected.

What challenges did you face on the path to becoming the first woman president of the club?

One major challenge was overcoming gender bias. Many questioned whether a lady could run the club. There was resistance and scepticism from some quarters. To address that, I ran a dignified campaign focused on clear communication, both in person and digitally, and shared my background, education and professional experience so members could appreciate my qualifications. The mindset of the younger generation helped, and some senior members who knew my family were supportive. Ultimately, persistence and respectful campaigning paid off.

Were there rules that prevented women from joining leadership in the past?

No formal rule now prevents women from serving. Historically, the club’s culture and practices were male-focused; for example, women were not invited to some very formal events. Over time, the rules and practices evolved, partly due to changing social norms and partly due to members’ insistence on inclusivity. That gradual opening allowed women to join committees and, eventually, to stand for higher positions.

Since you joined in 2008, what major changes have you seen at the club?

The most significant change has been the shift in mindset. The club, historically a male-dominated one, has gradually become more inclusive. Today, I am proud to serve as the first lady president in the club’s 117-year history, a clear sign of how attitudes have evolved. We have also widened our membership base and introduced events and facilities that appeal to younger members while preserving our heritage.

What are some of your best memories at the club?

Sitting here as the first lady president is certainly a highlight (laughs). Breaking that glass ceiling after many years of tradition has been deeply meaningful. I also cherish moments of successful member-driven events, especially those that brought different generations together. The support of close family friends and several senior members during the election was also very encouraging.

Calcutta Club is a heritage institution. How will you balance preserving its history with modern needs?

Heritage is central to the Calcutta Club’s identity. The club began over a century ago with Maharajas, British aristocrats and established families, and that legacy shapes our traditions and decorum. We remain inclusive, but we preserve formal elements such as our dress code and traditional events. At the same time, we’ve relaxed some rules, for instance, jeans are allowed in many spaces so members can visit after work, while maintaining formality in specific rooms like the men’s bar, dining room and others. My aim is to keep the club’s heritage intact while making it comfortable and relevant for today’s members.

Are there any new heritage-focused events you want to introduce?

The Heritage Fashion Walk is my flagship heritage initiative, and I hope to scale it up during Heritage Week. Besides that, Heritage Week will feature classical concerts, talks and curated programs that celebrate the club’s history and traditions. My aim is to preserve our cultural calendar while presenting it engagingly to both senior and younger members.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind as president?

I want to leave a legacy of friendship and fellowship. A club is, at heart, a place to make and nurture friendships; fellowship binds members together across generations. I aim to balance tradition and inclusiveness, preserve our heritage, and ensure the club remains an exclusive yet welcoming place where members feel respected and valued. I will serve with balance, care and respect for all members.