Inside Soho House Mumbai where stories take shape

Since its inception in 1995 on London's Greek Street, Soho House has been a sanctuary for creative minds. Envisioned as a members-only club for individuals in the creative industry, it has grown into a global network of more than 40 houses across the UK, Europe, North America, and Asia. Each location caters to its local culture while maintaining a warm, welcoming space for collaboration, creativity, and community.

In November 2018, Soho House Mumbai became the 23rd house worldwide and the first in Asia. Situated in a city renowned for its vibrant energy and storytelling traditions, the house blends the brand's global aesthetic with local culture. From its rooftop pool overlooking Juhu Beach to its private screening room and eclectic interiors, Soho House Mumbai offers the most conducive environment for dining, relaxing, and creating. Amenities such as a restaurant, spa, gym, and dedicated event spaces make it more than just a members' club—it's an innovative cultural hub.

India's creative spirit is deeply rooted in centuries-old art forms, a thriving film industry, and a calendar brimming with festivals. Performers, storytellers, and artists find inspiration in every nook and corner—from classical traditions to bold contemporary experiments. Cinema, in particular, holds a special place in the country's collective imagination, influencing everything from fashion to lifestyle. Recognising this rich cultural landscape, Soho House Mumbai has become vital for building connections among creative professionals.

Their commitment to creativity led to a significant milestone in October 2024 when Soho House partnered with The Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (MAMI) to host the annual film festival. Designed to facilitate dialogue and collaboration within the filmmaking community, the festival kickstarted with an exciting performance by Madboy Mink band (Saba Azad and Imaad Shah), and the programme featured more than 30-panel discussions on independent film distribution, the impact of artificial intelligence on entertainment, co-production strategies, and sustainable filmmaking practices. 

Attendees also enjoyed watching films screened at the House's private theatre as part of the South Asia Competition category. The films highlighted the latest works from independent filmmakers across fiction, documentary, and animation genres, offering a platform for diverse voices and upcoming talent. On the closing night, Soho House hosted an intimate gig featuring the band Foster the People. This collaboration with MAMI celebrated the intersection of Indian and global cinema, reinforcing Soho House Mumbai's role as a hub of cultural exchange and innovation.

In November, the restaurant at Soho House Mumbai became a cultural cauldron of sorts for those who attended the inaugural edition of Design Mumbai 2024, India’s new annual international design event. Visitors indulged in the restaurant's food and drinks while engaging in creativity at the networking event at the lounge. This landmark event aimed to celebrate India’s dynamic design landscape while integrating global ideas and perspectives into the city’s creative core. Over four days, attendees explored an impressive line-up of industry leaders and a thoughtfully curated selection of India’s top independent designers and artisans. Ian Rudge, Co-Founder of Design Mumbai, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This event marks a significant milestone for India, offering an international platform unlike anything seen before.” 

Later that month, Art Mumbai returned for its second edition, featuring the Soho House Lounge by Soho House Mumbai. The space showcased an exclusive collection by anonymous artist Princess Pea titled Paracosm: Proposals for the Future. Guided by British-Somali poet Warsan Shire and the resilience of rural women, the collection used vibrant colours as a metaphor for global solidarity and faith.

The collaborations for the House continue with an exciting speakeasy event on November 28 with Nature Morte, Colaba—a gallery renowned for showcasing contemporary art across diverse genres and mediums, primarily by South Asian artists. This speakeasy will be a visual treat for art enthusiasts. 

While every Soho House reflects its unique location, the philosophy remains the same: To create a home away from home for creatives. In Mumbai, this translates into a place where ideas take shape, connections are nurtured, and art comes to life. Whether hosting a film screening, a panel discussion, or simply serving as a space to unwind, Soho House Mumbai encapsulates the spirited energy of the city it calls home.

Image credits: Soho House 

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