Mukund Mandir in Akola is remembered for one name: Geetabai Deshpande, affectionately called Gitāātyā by devotees. From the temple’s establishment to her last breath, her contributions have been so significant that the history of Mukund Mandir is incomplete without her.

Geetabai was born in the Chaudhary family, sister to Narayan Madhav Chaudhary and Shrikrishna Madhav Chaudhary. Growing up, she imbibed values of patriotism, social service, and devotion. She married Dhondopant Mukund Deshpande, linking two families’ legacies in the temple’s history.

After Mukund Mandir was established, Geetabai devoted her entire life to it. She resided in a room within the temple, personally managing its upkeep and attending to devotees with warmth. Her care gave the temple a homely, living soul.

Geetabai performed daily rituals and worship centered on Dattatreya. Her devotion inspired others, creating an aura of peace within the temple. Many devotees recall the serene spiritual atmosphere during her prayers.

Gitāātyā often said: “Worship of God is service to people.” She treated every devotee with care, assisted the poor, encouraged children, and empowered women to actively participate in religious activities.

During Navratri, she oversaw worship, organized bhajan sessions, and managed annadan. She encouraged women’s participation, fostering a sense of belonging and devotion, and making the festival a community celebration.

She connected closely with children, telling stories, giving blessings, and inspiring love for the temple. Many older devotees recall: “Our first connection with the temple was through Gitāātyā.”

Geetabai led a simple life with modest clothing and diet, embodying peace and contentment. She comforted devotees, teaching them to have faith in God during hardships.

Gitāātyā was more than a person; she was an ideal. Through her devotion and service, she demonstrated that female power is alive not just in the deity, but in daily life. She taught future generations that true devotion is selfless service.

While Dhondopant Mukund Deshpande initiated the history of Mukund Mandir, it was Geetabai Deshpande (Gitāātyā) who gave it a living soul. Her life of devotion, service, and simplicity continues to inspire and guide devotees. She showed that a temple is not just a building, but a living family of devotion and service.