Mumbai’s top club removes Jemimah Rodrigues over her father’s ‘religious activity’

Actions were reportedly initiated by Khar Gymkhana officials in response to objections raised by certain members regarding the utilization of club premises by Jemimah Rodrigues’ father, Ivan, for what was described as “religious activities”. Accusations were made that events held at the club were aimed at converting individuals perceived as vulnerable.

Jemimah Rodrigues, a prominent batter for the Indian women’s cricket team, had her membership at Khar Gymkhana, one of Mumbai’s most historic clubs, revoked.

The decision to take action was made by Khar Gymkhana officials following objections raised by certain members regarding the use of club facilities by her father, Ivan, for “religious activities.” They accused that gatherings were orchestrated with the intention to “convert” individuals deemed as “vulnerable.

The resolution to revoke her membership was made during the annual general meeting held on Sunday in this locality. Despite multiple attempts through text messages and phone calls on Monday, no response was received from Jemimah Rodrigues or her father for comments.

Vivek Devnani, the president of Khar Gymkhana, confirmed to The Indian Express that the honorary three-year membership granted to Ms. Jemimah Rodrigues was rescinded following a resolution approved by the attendees of the general meeting on October 20, 2024.

Shiv Malhotra, a member of the managing committee at Khar Gymkhana, elaborated on the situation. He mentioned that Jemimah Rodrigues’s father had connections with Brother Manuel Ministries, which had reserved the presidential hall for numerous events over eighteen months. Malhotra alluded to the nature of the activities taking place during these 35 events.

Malhotra pointed out that despite the widespread discussion about conversions nationwide, the activity was actually taking place right in their own community. At the event, there were elaborate decorations, high-end music gear, and large screens. He emphasized that in accordance with Rule 4A of Khar Gymkhana’s constitution, religious practices were strictly prohibited on the premises.

Nitin Gadekar, ex-president of Khar Gymkhana, revealed that he was alerted to a “religious event” occurring at the facility by a staff member. Upon investigation with fellow members including Malhotra, they discovered a dark room resonating with trance music where a woman proclaimed, ‘He is coming to save us.’ Gadekar expressed astonishment at the Gymkhana’s tolerance of such activities and led a protest resulting in the immediate termination of the woman’s membership.

Khar Gymkhana extended an invitation to Jemimah Rodrigues in 2023, welcoming her as a member to access and utilize its facilities.