Bibliophiles Unite! A Homegrown Guide To Book Clubs In India

I can hear the pitter-patter of raindrops falling on the asbestos shade of my neighbor's garage - the windows of my room are wide open creating a cross-ventilation of sweet, cold breezes - a piping hot cup of coffee is right beside me and I am curled up in a blanket with a book of the latest author I am obsessing over with. Now that’s how I envision a perfect scene and setting for one of my favorite activities —reading. However, contrary to popular belief, we bibliophiles are not all introverts or misanthropes. There’s rarely a more invigorating or cerebral experience than gushing about an author, a book, a particular writing style, or a genre with a fellow reader who “just gets it”. When reading becomes a community activity, it takes on a whole different dynamic. With that in mind, let us explore some well-known book clubs across India, where you not only meet and discuss books with fellow enthusiasts like you but much more lies in store:

I. Delhi Book Lovers

Delhi Book Lovers (DBL) is a thriving book community in Delhi, boasting over 8000 members from various backgrounds, including business stalwarts, authors, publishers, IT professionals, students, journalists, and more. DBL goes beyond book discussions, organizing author-interactive sessions, events, book releases, and workshops for aspiring writers. The club actively promotes books and authors through online and offline marketing. DBL's main objective is to provide a platform for members to express their views on diverse literature and foster creativity in the literary world. With a passion for debates and discussions on books encompassing different philosophies, mindsets, and experiences, DBL stands out for its dedication to seeking new creative expressions. Founded in 2012 by Kunal Gupta and Meenakshi Goyal, DBL aims to connect like-minded individuals and spread literature in innovative ways, serving as a platform for budding Indian authors.

Click here to join the book club.

II. Bound Together, Bombay

It is a vibrant public book club based in Mumbai that gathers regularly at various cafes or bars in the city. It welcomes book lovers from all walks of life to come together and share their reading experiences. The club typically convenes on Saturday afternoons, with meeting locations usually alternating between Bandra and Colaba. Each week, Bound Together Bombay explores different themes, offering a diverse range of reading selections. From sports fiction to global literature, contemporary French works to Halloween-themed reads, the club ensures an engaging and varied experience for its members.

Click here to join the book club.

III. IISER Literary Club, Kolkata

This book club organized by students of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, follows a monthly book selection format. At the end of each month, club members gather to engage in lively discussions about the chosen book. In addition to these discussions, the club also organizes various interactive activities such as quizzes, panel discussions, debates, and short story writing competitions. An annual spelling bee is also held as part of their activities. Special membership privileges include the ability to request any book, which will be made available in the institute library, and the opportunity to be part of the editorial board for Muse, the club's annual magazine. This book club provides a platform for students to explore literature, exchange ideas, and actively participate in a range of literary activities.

Click here to join the book club.

IV. The Bangalore Book Club

The Bangalore Book Club (BBC) is one of Bangalore's oldest and most cherished book clubs, providing a platform for book lovers to engage in debates and share experiences. Since its inception in 2006, the BBC has organized regular gatherings on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month at 4:00 PM, with the location communicated beforehand. The club welcomes both book readers and amateur/professional writers, who individually read a chosen book and then participate in discussions. Covering a wide range of genres, the BBC plans a year's worth of reading in advance, fostering a diverse and curated literary experience for its members.

Click here to join the book club.

V. Hyderabad Book Club

The Hyderabad Book Club, established in 2010, has gained immense popularity among readers in the city. With a membership of 425 and a substantial following, the club serves as a vibrant community for both authors and readers. Members regularly gather to discuss and exchange recommendations on noteworthy books and emerging authors. The club warmly welcomes individuals of all ages and genders who share a deep passion for the literary arts.

Click here to join the book club.

VI. Chennai English Book Club

The primary purpose of the Chennai English Book Club book club is to provide a platform for sharing opinions, observations, and thoughts inspired by the books you read. If you're a book lover who enjoys exploring new titles and desires to engage in discussions with like-minded individuals, you should definitely join this club. The club focuses primarily on English modern fiction, although it also braces a multitude of genres. Book selections are determined democratically by club members through voting. They plan and meet once a month on Sundays at a predetermined café.

Click here to join the book club.

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