Kirti Mandir and the Mahatma’s Presence

On October 2, 1869, a 3-storey blue “haveli” in Porbandar city had a reason to rejoice. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born. His father, grandfather and uncle were the prime ministers at that time to the Jethwa Rajput rulers of Saurashtra, the princely state.

Known as Kirti Mandir today, Gandhi’s birth place is turned into a museum that displays his photographs, possessions and a library of books written by him and on him. You can also get text on Gandhian practice and philosophy. The library harbors about 20,000 books currently.

As you enter the Mandir, the first thing that hits you is the quietness. You experience peace of mind here. You can actually feel the non-violence attitude creep within you in this house.

More about Gandhi’s Birth House

Kirti Mandir is E-shaped. It consists of terraces, balconies, domes and a shikhar that spans 33 meters in height. Interiors of the temple are of marble finish and commemorative of the Gaekwads.

The birth place also comprise of a prayer hall, spinning hall and children’s nursery. The temple regularly organizes prayers of all faiths. There is also a planetarium which features regular shows on astronomy and on the honor of  Non-Alignment Policy of India. At the threshold of the planetarium, you will find a photo panel that has pictures of various historic events. They give you a trip to the history of India.

The 3 Storey Wonder

In 1950, Shri Puru Shotam Mistry and Shri Nanji Kalidas renovated this “haveli” and gave it a new dimension.

In one of the rooms at the ground floor of the “haveli” is the symbol of Swastik. This is the room where Mahatma Gandhi was born.

The upper floor features Gandhi’s room which is connected to the Gandhian library with a wooden staircase. Apart from the prayer room and nursery, there exists a spire with a huge collection of photographs. They depict the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi.

The walls of the Mandir are adorned with 79 “diyas” or oil lamps. They connote the age of Mahatma Gandhi at the time of his demise.

Just adjacent to Kirti Mandir is Navi Khadi, which is where Kasturba Gandhi was born.

It is Hard to Miss the Mahatma When in Porbandar

Porbandar city holds historical and religious significance, as Mahatma Gandhi and Sudama, the best friend of Lord Krishna, were born here. This coastal city is situated in Gujarat’s southwest peninsula.

The Harappan Civilization flourished at this place between 16th and 14th century BC. It is now a hustling bustling city that offers a pilgrimage into the life of the “great soul” or Mahatma.

Other temples that attract a flock of tourists in this city include Sudama Mandir and Gita Mandir. The Chowpatty or beach, Bird Sanctuary, Nehru Planetarium, Rana Bapu Mahal, and Kamla Nehru Park are other attractions of Porbandar. The city is well connected and the best time to visit is between March and October.