Introduction

Financed by well-known philanthropist David Sassoon, the 'Monument of Pune' is a striking architectural specimen featuring huge Gothic pillars, a towering 90 ft high clock spire and long, narrow stained glass windows. Sassoon, himself a Jew from Baghdad, wanted the synagogue to be a structure visible from all across Pune. There was a time when Jews from Mumbai used to converge at the synagogue, to escape the hot summers and humid monsoons of the city. Today, there are only a handful of Jews left in Pune, for whom prayers are held every Saturday within the exquisitely detailed, white-marbled interiors. There is a prayer hall reserved just for ladies. The precinct also houses the mausoleum of David Sassoon.

Special Attributes

It is Asia’s largest synagogue outside Israel.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress appropriately, avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

PMT Buses, Auto Rickshaws, Private Taxis

Enjoyed by

Lovers of Architecture

Exposure

Entry to the synagogue is limited only to Jews, though special permission can be obtained by calling up the caretaker. However, the adjoining grounds are open to all, which does become slightly difficult to maneuver in during the rainy season.

Avoidable Season

Avoid planning a visit on Friday evenings or Saturdays mornings, which are the scheduled Shabbat service hours. You may also wish to avoid Jewish High Holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Passover, and other festivals.

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

Prior permission needs to be taken from the caretaker for non-Jews to enter the premises.

Tip

Although the synagogue has exteriors with Gothic features, the interiors are built in thea Baghdad style, with 'tebah' (ark-shaped) and 'hekal' (temple-shaped) arches and an exclusive gallery for women.

Type of site

A well-known monument and landmark of the city.