TN: A club with long history celebrates 125th anni

Madurai, Mar 9: Madurai Union Club, one of the oldest in the State with the unique distinction of hosting legendary personalities from India and England, is celebrating its 125th anniversary today.

Talking to UNI, Club President S Rangarajan said the club was formed in 1883 when the country was under British Rule. The then Madurai Collector, Mr Crole, gave land for the club which was registered only in 1907.

A library was constructed in 1894 when King Bhaskara Sethupathi of the erstwhile princely State of Ramanathapuram donated huge money for its development.

The Club got another distinction with the renowned Royal Klang Club and Sitiawan Recreation Club of Malaysia agreeing to include the Madurai Union Club in its affiliated club list.

Prominent personalities who visited the club include Swami Vivekananda, Indian National Congress (INC) Founder A O Hume, Governor-General of Independent India C Rajagopalachari and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

As part of the 125th anniversary celebrations, colourful cultural events, competitions and games will be showcased today.

UNI