— Published July 30, 2024

The Olympics at the club (episode 3): India House

Events Focus

A first. It is important. At the 2024 Paris Games, the Indian Olympic Committee offered itself a hospitality club. Its name: India House. The first of its kind at the Olympic Games. An illustration of the country's desire to secure the hosting of the Games in 2036.

FrancsJeux continues with this very Bollywood stop its tour of the clubs and houses of the national Olympic committees, started with Belgium, then continued with South Africa.

The Memorial

The unmissable Parc des Nations, in the Parc de la Villette, where a dozen clubs and NOC houses are gathered. The India House is located not far from Club France, but on the other side of the canal, a little away from the other places of celebration and hospitality.

The decor

The temporary building, all in length, is split into two parts. A first highlights traditional India, where a historic weaving machine is worth the detour. The other part presents a more modern India, thanks in particular to an immersion into the local culture by equipping oneself with virtual reality glasses. For the rest, sport with a presentation of the Indian Sports Institute and entertainment around cricket. A QR code allows you to send messages to the athletes in the delegation. Outside, on the terrace, you can eat Indian dishes and follow the events on a giant screen.

The price

Entrance costs 5 euros, Coca-Cola 2,50 euros and beer 5 euros. A chicken Tikka Masala with rice and parathan bread: 13 euros. Affordable.

The atmosphere

Friendly and relaxed. Everything is done to immerse the visitor in the Indian universe. The space is large enough to accommodate the public without crowding.

The public

Mostly Indian supporters, but also a solid contingent of visitors from other nationalities, attracted by Indian culture.

Why you have to go there

To immerse yourself in the culture of India, while staying connected to the Olympic Games.

Why is it not essential

The broadcast of the events on the giant screen gives priority to Indian athletes. Normal. But they are slow to shine: only two bronze medals as of July 30 in the middle of the day.