Mahatma Gandhi dealt with the racial discrimination in South Africa pretty effectively, however, would be heartbroken to see his own nation, still in the clutches of racism.

Recently we shared a story of an Israeli cafe in Kasol that does not allow Indians. After further research, we found that this isn’t the only place in India with this restricted entry to Indians. There are 5 places in India where Indians are strictly banned. It seems hard to believe but yes, this is true. We understand those hotels and organizations reserve the right to admission, but here are a few examples when people took it to a whole other level.

1. Free Kasol Cafe in Kasol

Kasool is one of the most beautiful tourist spots of India. It is well-known for its peace and laid back attitude. But a restaurant in Kasool namely ‘Free Kasool’ discriminates against people by refusing to serve Indian customers. Just because the owner’s loyalty doesn’t lie with Indians! This cafe became infamous after a story of its owners refused to serve an Indian who had gone there to dine out with his foreigner friend went viral on facebook.

2. ‘Foreigner’s Only’ beaches in Goa

Goa is probably the most frequented tourist destination in India. A number of beach shack owners in Goa openly discriminate against Indian beach-goers. The reasoning behind this one is that it protects bikini-wearing foreigners from the lusty eyes of Indians, presumably because only Indians are capable of “lusty gazes”. Whatever excuses the private beach owners give, the hard fact remains the same: “Sorry Indians, you’re not welcome!”

3. ‘Foreigner’s Only’ beaches in Pondicherry

After Goa, Pondicherry is another favored destination for foreigners who come to India. The pristine beaches surrounded by the beautiful French and Indian architecture make it a preferred location for both Indians and foreigners. However, they, too like Goa, have beaches reserved exclusively for the foreigners while Indians gets humiliation and nothing else there. Yes, I don’t get it either!

4. Uno-In Hotel in Bangalore

Started in the year 2012 in Bangalore, the UNO-IN hotel was setup  in association with Nippon Infrastructure company to cater to the needs of the growing corporate Japanese population in Bangalore city.  The hotel however shot to limelight in early 2014 after reports of them denying entry for Indians into their restaurant was picked up by the media. The hotel was soon shut down by the Greater Bangalore City Corporation on charges of racial discrimination.

5. Broadlands Lodge in Chennai

This former Nawab’s residence which was turned into a hotel in Triplicane (Chennai) caters only to foreign passport holders and the Indians are not allowed in the lodge. The lodge has been given the pseudonym “Highlands Hotel”.

Are we Indians really that bad to have as company or is this just a clear case of discrimination? If we pander to such things we might as well revert to pre-independence India and hang up signs saying “No Indians and Dogs allowed” and accept being treated as second-class citizens in our own country!