Once a family pastime, Mahjong finds a new table in Delhi’s social scene

In Jor Bagh, Ferida Chopra found a vibrant Mahjong community in her drawing room. Four women of various ages gathered around a square table, playing the ancient Chinese game that means "sparrow." Ferida, a lawyer who began playing at age 50, learned the game to keep her mind sharp, while her 97-year-old mother battles dementia. Her WhatsApp group, Lutyens’ Delhi, connects players from multiple neighborhoods.

The Mahjong boom in Delhi has grown exponentially over the past five years, moving beyond family circles to commercial teaching and social events. Originating in 19th century China, the game traveled to India through Parsi traders and British officers. It has been played in Mumbai's Willingdon Sports Club and the Tollygunge Club.

In Defence Colony, 73-year-old Vijaylakshmi started offering professional lessons, accepting students from diverse backgrounds. In Greater Kailash, Vasundhara Sinha and her sister-in-law Diya Kaul opened Mahjong Studio, teaching the game to children and seniors alike. The game's popularity surged among younger generations recently.

The Mahjong Network, founded in Mumbai, now has chapters in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, holding events that combine the game with food and socializing. Despite its growing appeal, the cost of learning and playing Mahjong remains high. However, the network aims to make the game accessible to all.