Stamping History: Bombay Gymkhana Marks 150 Years with Postal Tribute

Updated: December 14, 2025 10:05

Image Source: Press Release:Press Information Bureau

On December 13, 2025, the Department of Posts released a commemorative stamp celebrating 150 years of Bombay Gymkhana. Established in 1875, the club has been a cradle of Indian sports and culture. The stamp honours its legacy as one of India’s most respected institutions, blending tradition with modern sporting excellence.

The Department of Posts has released a special commemorative postage stamp to mark the 150th anniversary of Bombay Gymkhana, one of India’s most iconic sporting institutions. The ceremony, held in Mumbai on December 13, 2025, celebrated the club’s enduring legacy in sports, culture, and community life.

Key Highlights

Stamp Release: The commemorative stamp was formally unveiled by Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, in the presence of dignitaries including Milind Deora (Rajya Sabha MP), Sanjiv Saran Mehra (President, Bombay Gymkhana), and Suchita Joshi (Postmaster General, Navi Mumbai Region).

Historic Legacy: Established on June 19, 1875, Bombay Gymkhana was envisioned by Captain E.L. Maryyat and Lieutenant C.L. Young of the Royal Engineers, who felt “a Bombay Gymkhana is a crying want.” It went on to become India’s first authentic gymkhana, shaping the nation’s sporting destiny.

Sporting Heritage: Over 150 years, the club has hosted cricket, rugby, hockey, and athletics, serving as a cradle for Indian sports and producing generations of athletes.

Cultural Contribution: Beyond sports, Bombay Gymkhana has been a hub for social gatherings, cultural events, and civic engagement, making it a cornerstone of Mumbai’s heritage.

Minister’s Remarks: Scindia praised the institution as “not only one of Maharashtra’s most prestigious gymkhanas but also among the most respected sporting institutions in India,” noting that the stamp is a tribute to its rich legacy and contribution to national identity.

Broader Context

The release of the commemorative stamp underscores the government’s commitment to preserving India’s sporting and cultural milestones. India Post has a long tradition of issuing stamps to honour institutions and personalities that have shaped the country’s history. For Bombay Gymkhana, this recognition cements its place as a living institution that continues to inspire athletes and citizens alike.

The event also highlights the importance of heritage clubs in modern India, where they serve as bridges between tradition and contemporary sporting culture. Bombay Gymkhana’s 150-year journey reflects the evolution of Indian sports from colonial times to the present, symbolizing resilience, inclusivity, and excellence.

The 150th anniversary stamp is more than a philatelic tribute—it is a celebration of Bombay Gymkhana’s role in shaping India’s sporting spirit and cultural fabric.

Sources: Free Press Journal, UNI India

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