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Broadlands Lodge in Chennai and its "No Indians" policy
Farewell to Broadlands
ColinT2006-05-13 16:59:13
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owner and grandson of the founder, says that he ‘‘chooses’’ his guests carefully and denies that discrimination exists. However I have only ever seen a handful of Indian people ever make it through the door over the years. Here is another fine line: between being ‘‘selective’’ and outright discrimination. All forms of social exclusion are divisive, and arguably Broadlands’ policy of ‘‘selectivity’’ harks back to the colonial era, like the architecture itself. But this time again the rules are being made and enforced by Indians themselves.
The owner and staff reckon they are dubious about letting Indians in for a variety of reasons, of which I’ve heard many during the past nine years. According to Krishna, rowdy behaviour was a problem back in the 1970s before Broadlands became more “selective”. However, other hotels in the area readily accept both Indians and foreigners, and let’s face it, some foreign backpackers are experts in the art of excess by partying throughout the day and night. Another reason that has been given is that many residents stay long term, studying yoga, music or other aspects of Indian culture; if Indian people were allowed, guests would not be allowed sufficient personal space or privacy.
A further explanation for being “selective” is that the place has communal showers and toilets, and this can involve women walking to and from the facilities, perhaps dressed in the barest essentials. It is felt that as the norms and values surrounding gender and sexuality are different in India, this may cause problems.
Finally, the owners want to ensure that there are always places available for foreigners who travel large distances to come to India.
Foreigners who stay at Broadlands are often apalled by the owner’s “selectivity”. They do not feel inclined to boycott the place, however, as the ambience is so magnetic.
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See photographs from:
India Gallery
