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The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi was born in
Porbandar, on October 2, 1869. The
house where he was born is situated at the back of the 'haveli' of
Shrinathji, near Manek Chowk in Porbandar, the Taluka headquarters of
Junagadh district, in Gujarat.
KIRTI MANDIR
This house was purchased from members of the Gandhi family, who were
staying there in 1947, to convert it into a monument - Kirti Mandir.
Structures that were no longer required, along the road leading to the
house, were removed. 
The foundation stone of Kirti Mandir was laid in 1947. This piece of art
was completed within two years. The opening ceremony of this memorial was
performed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
ARCHITECTURAL STYLES
There are some distinguished elements in the architectural and sculptural
planning of Kirti Mandir. The Mandir includes, in its structure, the best
elements of the constructional art of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples,
Christian churches, Parsee fire temples and Muslim
mosques.
INSIDE THE MONUMENT
The Mahatma was 79 years old when construction of the temple began; so
the height of the temple is 79 feet. Seventy-nine designs of lamp bowls
have also been included. Life-sized paintings of the Mahatma and Kasturba
are placed under the dome. Two ideals, "Truth" and "Non-violence",
have been inscribed in the stands.
The main incidents in the life of the Mahatma are inscribed in
chronological order, near the paintings. Some 'shlokas' (religious hymns)
and 'bhajans' (devotional songs) of the Mahatma's choice, as well as
pieces from his speeches have been inscribed on various pillars. The
monument is a genuine tribute to the Father of the Nation.