History of Porbandar

ConstituencyHistory of Porbandar

History of Porbandar
CONSTITUENCY

History of Porbandar

History of Porbandar

Porbandar, facing directly the roaring shore of Arabian Sea, located between the worlds famous “DWARKA” and “SOMANATH” one of the twelve popular mythological ancient Indian histories, the town planning of the city is so perfectly planned that today it is an attraction to the modern town planner worldwide. Amongst many other importance, Porbandar is an ascetic land of saint SUDAMA, the bosom friend of lord “KRISHNA” and birth place of Mahatma Gandhi , the father of nation who taught a lesson of non-violence to the present day world. Porbandar is having its importance not only from mythological point of view but it is an attraction to thousands of local and foreign tourists who pay visit to this holy city daily.

Porbandar is a city and the headquarters of Porbandar district in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and Sudama. It was the former capital of the Porbandar princely state. Porbandar and Chhaya are the twin cities of each other and both cities are jointly governed by Porbandar–Chhaya Municipal Corporation.

Porbandar, with its rich mythological and historical fortune, has always been attracting people from all over the world. This place is best known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of our Nation. Being a sea-shore city Porbandar has been able to develop itself into a favourite tourist destination and a hubbing port. Chowpati Beach, Kirti mandir,Kamla Nehru park, Nehru planetarium and Huzoor Palace have already placed Porbandar on the wish-list of many.

The city’s historical past is more glorious than the current scenario. The princely state of Porbandar was ruled by many distinguished names like the Jethwas, Marathas and the Gaekwads. The rich cultural wealth of Porbandar (then Kathiawad) got richer with the arrival of the British. It joined the dominion of India in 1947 and became independent on February 15, 1948.

Kirti Mandir

About The Place

Kirti Mandir is the memorial temple built in memory of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi located in Porbandar. Kirti Mandir is the ancestral house of Gandhi family, where Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869 is just adjacent to the Kirti Mandir.

Brief History

Upon the release of Mahatma Gandhi from the house – arrest at Aga Khan Palace in 1944-45, Rajratna Sheth Shree Nanjibhai Kalidas Mehta urged him to stay for some time at Panchgini. During which Nanjibhai expressed the desire of people of Porbandar to construct a memorial at the birth place of Honourable Bapu. Mahatma Gandhiji gave consent to sell his house to Shree Nanjibhai Mehta. Shree Nanjibhai constructed this wonderful monument and named it as Kirtimandir. Kirti Mandir was dedicated to the Nation on 27.5.1950 by Shri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. ‘Sarva dharma’ prayer is performed every year on the birth ceremony and death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhiji. The kirti Mandir Management Committee constituted by the Govt. Of Gujarat maintains and takes care of this monument.

Kirti Mandir

Sudama Mandir

About The Place

Constructed in the early 20th century, the Sudama temple stands in the middle of the bustling market area of Porbandar. The light pink temple stands amidst a copse of trees, which offer shade to the visitors. The temple has been built to commemorate the friendship between Lord Krishna and his trusted friend, Sudama. The temple is simple but adorned with marble pillars and an intricately sculpted shikhara. It also has a small stepwell in the complex.

Brief History

The Sudama temple was built between 1902 to 1907. It also has another monument in the green complex, which has been constructed in the memory of Shri Ram Devji Jethwa, the ruler of Jethwa Dynasty. The Jethwa dynasty ruled this region between the 8th and 20th century.

Sudama Mandir

Chopati Beach

About The Place

Chowpatty Beach is one of the most prominent beaches located in Porbandar, a coastal city in the state of Gujarat, India. This beach holds historical significance as it is closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, whose birthplace is nearby. The sandy shoreline of Chowpatty Beach is perfect for leisurely walks, and the site emits a peaceful vibe, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beach is well-maintained and is adorned with a well-structured promenade, and it offers various recreational activities such as camel and horse rides. Food stalls and local vendors can be seen around the beach, providing visitors with a taste of local snacks and street food. The tranquil atmosphere combined with the cultural importance of the area makes Chowpatty Beach an ideal spot for those looking to experience the serenity of nature while delving into the local flavors of Porbandar.

Chopati Beach

Bharat Mandir

Nestled in the coastal city of Porbandar in Gujarat, Bharat Mandir stands as a symbol of unity and patriotism. This temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata, a representation of India in the form of a goddess, and showcases the diverse heritage of this ancient land.

Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, has always been a significant spot for both domestic and international tourists. The city is deeply entrenched in the annals of Indian history, which has consistently driven the interest of visitors. The inception of Bharat Mandir added to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the city, attracting tourists who come to explore the ethos and values that the temple embodies. The temple, established in the latter part of the 20th century, became a landmark that encapsulated the country’s rich cultural diversity.

Shri Ajun Modhwadia

Chopati Beach

Chowpatty Beach is one of the most prominent beaches located in Porbandar, a coastal city in the state of Gujarat, India. This beach holds historical significance as it is closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, whose birthplace is nearby. The sandy shoreline of Chowpatty Beach is perfect for leisurely walks, and the site emits a peaceful vibe, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea.

Shri Ajun Modhwadia

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful natural area in the city of Porbandar where people and nature coexist harmoniously. The sanctuary covers an area of 1 square kilometer and is surrounded by trees and plants. It was established in 1988 to protect the many species of birds that live there.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary

Madhavpur Beach

One of Gujarat’s most well-known beaches, Madhavpur Beach, is only 58 kilometers from Porbandar. When travelling from Porbandar to Somnath by car, Madhavpur, known for its extensive coastal route, offers beautiful views. Madhavpur Beach is among the most tranquil and lovely locations to visit close to Junagadh.

Madhavpur Beach

Harsiddhi Temple

Harsidhdhi Temple, at the Border of Halar and Sorath, is the temple of Shri Lord Krishna’s as well as king Vikramaditya’s kuldevi. Harsidhdhi Temple is located at the sea coast of Halar, Gandhavi Village and coast line of Medhakhadi. Located upon Koyla Dungar, Harsidhdhi temple is from Chalukaya Kal. Aarti is extremely extra ordinary.

Harsiddhi Temple

Ghumli Navlakha Temple

Ghumli holds a unique position in the annals of Gujarat’s historical destinations. Although not as widely recognized as some other sites in India, Ghumli has quietly sustained its appeal to a niche group of history enthusiasts and cultural tourists. The town is widely acknowledged for its archaeological significance and the ancient temples that stand as a testament to an era bygone.

Ghumli Navlakha Temple

Lirbai Mataji Modhwada

The Lirbai Mataji Temple is situated in Modhvada village, Porbandar. Lirbai Mataji is especially revered by the Maher community, who consider her their Kuldevi. Daily rituals at the temple include aarti, bhajan/kirtan, distribution of Prasad, and special ceremonies during festivals. The temple also provides free food daily to visitors and the poor, as a gesture of hospitality and religious practice.

Lirbai Mataji Modhwada

Industrial Profile of Porbandar

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INFRASTRUCTURE

Infrastructure

Infrastructure for a city involves planning and implementing various systems to support its population, economy, and environment.

National Highway

National Highway

The national highway connecting Porbandar is National Highway 51 (NH 51) and 27 (NH 27). This highways is part of the National Highway network in India and play a crucial role in enhancing Porbandar’s connectivity and contribute significantly to its accessibility and economic development.

Port

Porbandar is situated on the western coast of India, along the Arabian Sea. The port’s strategic location makes it a vital hub for maritime activities in the region. Porbandar Port is equipped with modern facilities to handle various types of cargo. The port has several berths for docking ships and is capable of handling both bulk and container cargo.

Airport

Porbandar Airport is situated approximately 5 kilometers from the city center of Porbandar. The airport has a single terminal handling both domestic arrivals and departures. It is relatively small compared to major airports but provides essential services and amenities for travelers.

Dam

In Porbandar, there are several small dams that play a crucial role in water management for agriculture, drinking water, and industrial use. One of the notable small dams in the region is the Khambhala Dam, Bardasgar etc. These include local check dams and small water reservoirs built for agricultural purposes.

Porbandar

Porbandar is a coastal city in Gujarat, India, renowned as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Located on the Arabian Sea.