The District Grand Lodge of Madras (DGL), is a body created by the UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND (UGLE) under the authority of its Book of Constitutions. The head of the DGL is called the DISTRICT GRAND MASTER and is appointed under the authority of the Grand Master of the UGLE in London.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry, fraternal in character is one of the oldest surviving organisations in the world. Modern speculative masonry traces its origins to the local guilds of stonemasons. Freemasonry evolved from the guilds of stonemasons and cathedral builders of the Middle Ages.
The District Grand Lodge & Madras – Connected History
Freemasonry first arrived in India during the time of the East India Company; Most Lodges of those days were military Lodges, which moved with their Regiments.
District Grand Master
R. W. Bro. Mathew embarked on his Masonic journey in September 2001 and has since ascended to this prestigious position. Having served as the Worshipful Master of Archibald Campbell Lodge 4998 EC in 2010, he demonstrated exceptional leadership.
DGL Governance
The Leadership team at The District Grand Lodge of Madras is led by the District Grand Master, RW Bro Theophilius Arputharaj Devagnanam, who completed 10 years in office in 2021.
Freemasons Hall
Among the various forts, mansions & buildings which the British built in the historic city of Madras, the Freemasons Hall makes a fine entrant in the list. The foundation stone was laid on the 26th of February 1923, by then Governor of Madras, Lord Willingdon.
The Bar Dive
Constituted in 1944, the Prehistoric Order of ancient free-and-easy Old Bar Stewards, of which the Dive Old and Mild is No.1 and distinct in its form. This is a unique degree prevalent only in the jurisdiction of The District Grand Lodge of Madras. The working of this degree is held on the first day evening of the District Grand Lodge Meetings.
The Museum & Library
The District Grand Lodge of Madras possesses various rare and valuable artifacts of historical and masonic significance. All of these are safely curated and displayed at The Museum & Library.