Hidden Gem: Men, Get A Pair Of Bespoke Leather Shoes At This 100-Year-Old Shop

Pune is full of old secrets and hidden gems that date back to colonial times. We found one such gem – a men’s bespoke shoe shop – still in its original avatar on MG Road.

Nestled right next to Royal Bakery is a tiny old one-storey house with bright blue doors and an open shop-front. Over 100+ years old, the small shop is run by Ramesh – a fourth generation master craftsman. Ramesh says the shop was started many, many decades ago by his grandfather’s family. Originally from Bihar, they settled in Pune, and now Ramesh has been running the shop since the past 25 years. He learned the art of shoe-making from his craftsman father, when he {Ramesh} came to Pune to complete his studies in 1977. He finished his MCom Post-Grad, though things didn’t work out the way he planned, and so he decided to take over the family business. Now, he manages around 10 – 12 artisans at the shop, specialising in customised shoes for men. Each of them have been taught shoe-making skills passed down from one generation to the next, with no formal training.

Formal shoes, officer’s uniform shoes, riding boots, and even designer knockoffs – Ramesh can make you the shoes of your dreams, starting at INR 2200. You will have to come and get your feet measured properly, since everything is carefully made by hand. The methods are a bit more traditional, but no less effective.

Export-quality pure leather is used, and each pair of shoes takes between 8-10 days to complete. There are plenty of catalogs you can choose from, if you don’t already have a specific design in mind. These shoes are sturdy and can last you for years, if you treat them well. Need an old pair of leather shoes restored? They can do that as well. Unfortunately, they do not make women’s shoes, but Ramesh says they can make women’s boots on special request.

Timings:  11.00am – 2.00pm and 4.00pm – 8.00pm from Monday to Saturday {Sunday closed} Contact: +91 9960388614

If you’re looking to buy a pair of shoes that are comfortable, smart and looks like no other, go check the store out!

 

It’s best to call them in advance to check if they’re open {though they usually are} because their timings can be a bit erratic.