Gitai Mandir

Gitai Mandir is a unique spiritual memorial located in Gopuri, Wardha, Maharashtra, dedicated to Acharya Vinoba Bhave's Marathi translation of the Bhagavad Gita titled Gitai. Built on 27.8 acres at the site of Jamnalal Bajaj's Samadhi, it was inaugurated by Vinoba Bhave in 1980. The structure has no deity, roof, or sanctum; instead, eighteen chapters of Gitai are inscribed on granite slabs forming walls that symbolize national unity.

Visitors can expect a serene open-air environment enclosed by granite slabs inscribed with verses of the Gitai. The site features a photograph exhibition depicting Acharya Vinoba Bhave's life and ideologies, and Shanti Kutir displaying memorabilia of Jamnalal Bajaj. The aerial layout forms shapes of a charkha and a cow, reflecting Gandhian constructive work symbols. It is a peaceful space for meditation and reflection without traditional temple rituals.

The foundation stone was laid by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, and construction was completed in 1980 by Kamalnayan Bajaj Charitable Trust. Acharya Vinoba Bhave inaugurated the mandir on October 7, 1980, marking the 50th anniversary of his commencement of writing Gitai. It stands at the Samadhi site of Jamnalal Bajaj, a prominent Gandhian and independence activist.

Gitai Mandir serves as a memorial to Acharya Vinoba Bhave's literary and spiritual contribution through Gitai, the Marathi translation of the Bhagavad Gita. Its architecture embodies Gandhian principles of humility and simplicity, rejecting idol worship in favor of scriptural wisdom. The integration of stones from across India signifies national unity and cultural integration.