Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore

Nobel Laureate, poet, philosopher, and one of India’s greatest cultural icons, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s association with East Bengal Club symbolised the club’s deep roots in Bengal’s cultural and intellectual renaissance. His encouragement of youth development, community identity, and progressive social thought resonated strongly with the club’s founding ethos. Tagore’s moral and cultural influence helped establish East Bengal Club not merely as a sporting body but as an institution representing pride, unity, and social upliftment.

Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee

Revered as the “Tiger of Bengal,” Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee was one of India’s most distinguished educationists, jurists, and institution builders. His association with East Bengal Club reflected his lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent and building institutions that foster discipline, pride, and excellence. In recognition of his towering contribution to Bengal’s intellectual and social awakening, East Bengal Club honoured his legacy by installing his statue in front of Victoria House in Kolkata, symbolising the club’s enduring reverence for his ideals and his inspirational role in shaping generations of youth. His association lent early credibility and stature to the club, reinforcing its role in promoting sporting and social values.

Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das

A towering leader of India’s freedom movement and a visionary social reformer, Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das played a defining role in shaping the identity of East Bengal Club. It was Deshbandhu who gave the club its name — “East Bengal” — thereby establishing a powerful cultural and emotional identity for millions who found in the club a symbol of unity, pride, and collective aspiration. His strong belief in self-reliance, community mobilisation, and empowerment of the masses aligned deeply with the club’s founding philosophy. His patronage and ideological guidance helped transform East Bengal Club into a people’s institution, inspiring generations of sports persons and supporters alike.

Shri Ghanshyam Das Birla (G.D. Birla)

One of India’s foremost industrial pioneers and philanthropists, Shri G.D. Birla was among the early members associated with East Bengal Club. A close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and a champion of nation-building through industry and social initiatives, his association reflected his belief in nurturing institutions that promoted youth development, discipline, and national pride. His support during the club’s early years contributed to strengthening its organisational foundation.

Shri Basant Kumar Birla (B.K. Birla)

A distinguished industrialist and education patron, Shri B.K. Birla carried forward the Birla family’s longstanding commitment to institution building and social development. His association with East Bengal Club reinforced the family’s continued support towards sporting excellence and community-driven initiatives. His leadership and philanthropic outlook reflected the shared vision of fostering opportunities for young sportspersons and strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem.

Shri G.P. Birla

Shri G.P. Birla, a respected industrialist and philanthropist, was closely associated with East Bengal Club and remained a strong supporter of its growth and development. Known for his commitment to social welfare and promotion of sports and education, his association with the club strengthened its outreach and institutional stability during crucial phases of its development. His contributions reflected the enduring bond between the Birla family and East Bengal Club.