Chapel at Purandar: A Picnic That Led to a Deeper Realisation

What began as a casual picnic slowly unfolded into a deeper realisation of how closely this chapel is connected to the story and heritage of St. Mary’s Church.

Hidden in the quiet hamlet of Purandar rises the majestic Purandar Fort, historically known as Purandhar Fort. Standing between the Shirwal valley to the west and the Saswad valley to the east, the fort has endured centuries of Maratha and British history.Yet on one of its mid-level terraces lies an unexpected and deeply meaningful treasure—a little Anglican church with a remarkable story.

Fitzclarence Memorial Church — A Chapel on the Clouds

The Anglican chapel at Purandar, known historically as the Fitzclarence Memorial Church or Holy Trinity Church, was built in the mid-19th century. It was dedicated to Lord Frederick Fitzclarence, a British military officer and cousin of Queen Victoria. He passed away at Purandar Fort around 1854–1856 while recovering at the British sanatorium located there.

The chapel, situated near the main gate of the fort, was constructed in classic English Gothic style—complete with buttresses, pointed arch windows, an east-facing chancel, and once even stained-glass adornments. Its pulpit and layout bear a striking resemblance to the one we cherish at St. Mary’s Church, Pune.

Purandar was a garrison post and hill sanatorium for the British. During World War II, the fort later became an internment camp where German civilians, Jews, and anti-Nazi refugees were housed. Anglican services continued there, often alongside Lutheran and Presbyterian worship gatherings.

Even today, locals refer to the chapel simply as the “Old Church.” Though derelict, its stone arches, remnants of its roof still speak of a time when hymns once echoed high above the valleys.

Chapel Interiors

Once a Pulpit

A Stained Glass window? maybe.

Chapel Interiors

Top view of the Chapel

With SMC Friends

A Strong and Surprising Bond With St. Mary’s Church

After our recent church picnic to Purandar, where we stumbled upon this forgotten chapel, a question lingered:Was there any connection between this hilltop sanctuary and St. Mary’s Church—the Mother Church of the Deccan?

To our amazement, the answer is yes, and not just a small connection—but a deep and documented one.

Historical records reveal that Fitzclarence Memorial Church was once under the administrative jurisdiction of St. Mary’s Church, Pune.The priests of St. Mary’s would travel up the mountain to conduct Anglican services, minister to soldiers and officers, and offer spiritual care at the hill sanatorium.

The chapel served not only as a garrison church but also as a retreat centre for those seeking rest and renewal in the serenity of the hills.

Sir Robert Grant and a Hymn Born on the Battlements

One of the most touching stories connected to this site involves Sir Robert Grant, Governor of Bombay Presidency (1834–1838), Christian statesman, and hymn writer, whose remains are interred at St. Mary’s Church.

Old references such as in an old magazine- "In And Around Poona" mention Sir Grant spending quiet hours on the battlements of Purandar Fort. Who knows maybe in those reflective moments, surrounded by sweeping valleys and dramatic sunsets, he may have penned the beloved hymn: "Oh Worship The King". The one we sing at every Church anniversary.

The words of this hymn are drawn from Psalm 104, a Psalm that proclaims the majesty of God revealed through creation. When imagined against the vast hills and open skies of surrounding the fort, these words come alive—echoing the psalmist’s awe at a Creator who clothes Himself in light and orders the beauty of the earth.

This Christmas, may this forgotten hilltop sanctuary stir our hearts to cherish the heritage God has entrusted to us—and inspire us to ask together:“Lord, what would You have us do with this chapel You’ve placed in our history?”

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Ruben Kale serves as a mentor to the St. Mary’s Church Youth Fellowship. He works in the field of Information Technology, specialising in Artificial Intelligence. He is grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside the youth and support them in their growth in faith, service, and fellowship.