How does a lodge in India elect its Master?

Elections for the Worshipful Master are held by the members of the lodge during an official Election Meeting, as noted by the Regional Grand Lodge of Northern India. To be qualified for election and installation as Worshipful Master of a Craft lodge under the Grand Lodge of India, a candidate must be a member of both the Chapter and Mark Masonic degrees, governed by Rule 87 of the Book of Constitution.

Historical lodge records in India illustrate that elections are determined by votes cast by the members from among the eligible brethren 1. If eligible members choose to withdraw or indicate their willingness to serve, such statements are presented to the brethren prior to voting 1. In the event of a tie during the balloting, the presiding Worshipful Master maintains the authority to exercise a casting vote to resolve the election 1.

Installation dates in Indian Craft lodges historically varied across different lodges and circumstances, though December—particularly St. John's Day in winter on December 27th—frequently served as a traditional installation day 1.

Historical lodge records in Hyderabad demonstrate that while some lodges maintained December 27th as their regular installation day 1, others eventually gave up the practice of holding a meeting on St. John's Day in winter 1. Consequently, installations were held during regular monthly meetings or special meetings at various times of the year, including early December 1, March 1, and June 1.

Special adjustments were also made to respect local religious observances. For example, when the Ramzan fast fell during December, a lodge obtained a dispensation to hold its election meeting early in November and conduct the installation on November 27th 1.