The century old Pudumjee Dharamshala wears a new look after renovations conducted during the pandemic. Housed in a residential complex known as Pudumjee Paradise, in Bhawani Peth, the building came up in 2001 when the old property was redeveloped (see "A passage to Poona,” Parsiana, February 2002). "It is centrally located and offers comfortable accommodation… It has 17 rooms, both air- conditioned and non-air- conditioned, with wi-fi, television and closed circuit television security,” wrote Tehmasp Bharucha, former Poona Parsi Panchayat trustee on behalf of the management.
Bharucha stated that it is suitable for "working classes, professional classes, weddings, and other functions, as well as for long stays for students at affordable rates… It also offers parking and catering facilities.” Tariffs range from Rs 1,000 per person per night to Rs 2,500.
Clockwise from top left: façade of the Pudumjee Dharamshala;
interior views; family ancestor Pestonjee Sorabjee Pudumjee
"The Pudumjee family was the first of the leading Zoroastrian families to convert their ancestral property at Bhawani Peth into a place of shelter for needy Zoroastrians,” appreciated Bharucha. The current trustees of the Khan Bahadur Pestonjee Sorabjee Charity Fund that runs the facility are Col Sohrab, Behram and Phiroz Pudumjee.
Community members wishing to avail of the facility could telephone the manager Gulnar Irani on 020-29950209 or +919970173221. She "also takes care of catering facilities for which the passengers are charged as per the meal option.” Irani told us that meals start at Rs 250 per person and breakfast at Rs 100. Occupancy rates vary according to the season, she noted, adding that some students use the facility long term. Non-Parsi spouses of community members may stay, Irani told us. Online booking facility will be provided soon, Bharucha stated.
The Jamsetjee Jejeebhoy Charity Fund also provides accommodation for travelers in the Camp area, at their facility Maneck Baug.