History of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India

The History of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India dates back to 1834, when the Travelling Military Lodge No. 290 I.C. applied for a Royal Arch Warrant. This application was supported by a Manuscript Memorial recommending Companions John David Robinson, Michael Dimond and Richard Stretton for the Principal Offices. This early initiative marked the beginning of Royal Arch activities under the Irish Constitution in India. Despite its early roots, the practice faced many challenges and transformations over the years, owing to the nature of Travelling Military Lodges of that period. The early efforts set the foundation for the future expansion of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in the region. These beginnings were critical in establishing a foothold for Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India.


In India, it became customary for Irish Royal Arch Chapters to carry the same number as their associated Lodges. This practice did not necessarily indicate the age or seniority of the Chapter, as a lower number did not equate to greater seniority. This unique numbering system highlighted the distinctive administrative practices within Irish Freemasonry. The practice helped maintain a cohesive identity between the Lodges and their respective Chapters. This tradition continues to differentiate Irish Freemasonry from other Masonic constitutions operating in India. The continuity of numbering has been an integral part of its identity.


Following the era of Travelling Military Lodges, the establishment of stationary lodges marked a new phase for Irish Freemasonry in India. The Lodge Duke of Abercorn No. 382 I.C. in Calcutta, established in 1903, was the first stationary Irish Lodge in the country. Four years later, in 1907, the Lodge saw the creation of its attached Chapter, the Shamrock, Rose and Thistle United No. 382 I.C. This marked the beginning of the modern journey of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India. Both the Lodge and its Chapter are now defunct. Despite their current status, these establishments were pivotal in the History of Irish Freemasonry in India.


Another significant yet ultimately unsuccessful attempt to expand occurred in Bombay with Lodge Shamrock No. 408 I.C. This Lodge applied for a Royal Arch Warrant in 1931. However, despite the effort, this application did not materialize into a functioning Chapter. The attempt nonetheless reflected the ongoing interest and efforts to grow Irish Freemasonry in India. These endeavors, even when not successful, showcased the determination of the Irish Masonic community. Such attempts highlighted the challenges faced in establishing lasting Masonic institutions during that period.

A major milestone was reached with Lodge Harp of Erin No. 567 I.C., which successfully applied for a Royal Arch Warrant. This led to the establishment of the Rodgers Memorial Royal Arch Chapter No. 567 I.C., named after V.W. Bro. Edwyn A. Rogers, PM, Lodge Harp of Erin No. 567 I.C. and Assistant Grand Inspector of Bengal in 1949. This Chapter is now the senior Irish Royal Arch Chapter in India. Its creation was a significant achievement, demonstrating the resilience and dedication of Irish Freemasons in India. The Chapter continues to hold a prominent place in the History of Irish Freemasonry in the region. Its legacy is a testament to the enduring nature of these Masonic institutions.


The expansion continued with the formation of the Irish Royal Arch Chapter No. 768 I.C., attached to Lodge Irish Friendship No. 768 I.C. in New Delhi in 1960. However, similar to some of its predecessors, both the Lodge and Chapter are now no longer part of the Irish Masonic Fraternity in India. Despite this, the establishment of these bodies reflected the ongoing growth and spread of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India. Each new Lodge and Chapter added to the History of the Irish Masonic Fraternity in the country. These efforts demonstrated the ongoing commitment to expanding the Masonic network.

In 1961, the Royal Arch Chapter St. Patrick No. 27 I.C. was formed in Bombay. This Chapter was established by members from Chapters in Calcutta and New Delhi, along with Brethren and Companions from various Irish Lodges in Bombay. The Chapter also included members from other Constitutions, reflecting a diverse and inclusive approach. The formation of St. Patrick No. 27 I.C. was a significant event in the Masonic community in Bombay. This inclusivity helped foster a vibrant and active Masonic presence in the city. The Chapter has played an important role in the Masonic landscape of Bombay, ever since.

A significant reorganization took place in 1983, when all Irish Lodges in India were brought under the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ireland in India. As part of this reorganization, the Rodgers Memorial Royal Arch Chapter No. 567 I.C. was moved to Bombay. Later, when Lodge Harp of Erin No. 567 I.C. was relocated to Bombay and then Madras, the Chapter was eventually reunited with its Lodge after the turn of the century. This reorganization aimed to streamline operations and enhance cohesion within Irish Freemasonry in India. These changes were critical in maintaining the organizational structure and unity of the Masonic community. The reorganization reflected adaptive strategies to sustain and grow the Masonic network.


The late 20th century saw further growth with the consecration of the Royal Arch Chapter Nowroze Wadia No. 804 I.C. in Mumbai in 1996. This Chapter was attached to the Nowroze Wadia Lodge No. 804 I.C., adding to the expanding network of Irish Freemasonry in India. This was followed by the Royal Arch Chapter Sahadevan No. 815 I.C. in 2003, attached to Saxena Lodge No. 815 I.C. in Kozhikode (Calicut). These new Chapters represented the continued vitality and expansion of Irish Freemasonry in the country. The establishment of these Chapters highlighted the sustained interest and commitment to Masonic principles. Each new Chapter added to the rich and evolving History of Irish Freemasonry in India.

In 2004, the presence of four Irish Royal Arch Chapters enabled the Consecration of the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Ireland in India in Mumbai. This new District was established to oversee and support the activities of Irish Royal Arch Chapters across India. Shortly after, the Bombay Royal Arch Chapter No. 648 I.C., attached to the Bombay Lodge No. 648 I.C., was added to the District in 2009. This development marked a new era of organizational maturity and regional governance. The establishment of the District Grand Chapter aimed to enhance coordination and support within the Masonic community. These efforts ensured the continued growth and sustainability of Irish Royal Arch Freemasonry in India.