Triumphant Homage to Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti: A Nation Reaffirms Unity

India, on October 31, observed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) with immense respect and fervour, marking the solemn and significant occasion of Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti. The anniversary of the birth of the ‘Iron Man of India’ saw the nation’s highest constitutional functionaries and political leadership gather in two key locations—the capital city of New Delhi and the historic site of the Statue of Unity in Gujarat—to offer heartfelt tributes to the architect of modern India’s geographical unity.

The nationwide commemoration served as a powerful reminder of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s pivotal role in weaving together the diverse fabric of India from over 560 princely states. His enduring vision of a unified, strong, and self-reliant nation remains a bedrock of the country’s governance and collective identity, inspiring generations to commit to national integrity. The meticulous planning of the day’s events across the country underscored the continuing relevance of his foundational contributions to the Republic.

Key Tributes on Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti

The Delhi Ceremony at Patel Chowk

In the national capital, a high-profile ceremony was held at the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel located in Delhi’s Patel Chowk. The gathering of key leaders symbolised the government’s collective reverence for the former Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.

The tributes paid at the Delhi ceremony included:

• President Droupadi Murmu led the commemorations, offering a solemn floral tribute at the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Her presence reaffirmed the highest executive respect for the leader’s legacy.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah joined the ceremony, reflecting the enduring connection between Sardar Patel’s historical role as the first Home Minister and the current administration’s focus on national security and integrity.
• Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi LG VK Saxena were also present, collectively honouring the revered leader and demonstrating unity across different levels of governance in the capital.
• The ceremonial floral tributes served as a formal gesture of gratitude and honour for a leader whose foresight steered India through its most formative and challenging post-Independence years.

Prime Minister’s Resolve at the Statue of Unity

Meanwhile, thousands of kilometres away in Nandia, Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the main celebratory event at the iconic Statue of Unity. The oath-taking ceremony on Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti was the focal point of the day, gathering thousands of participants to commit to the nation’s founding ideals.

The key highlights from the Gujarat event were:

• The Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge: The Prime Minister administered the national pledge, which thousands of attendees recited, dedicating themselves to “the preservation of the unity, integrity, and security of the nation.”
• Commitment to Internal Security: The oath specifically emphasised the resolution to “do my part to ensure the internal security of my country,” directly linking the celebration to contemporary national priorities.
• PM Modi’s Homage: Earlier in the day, PM Modi used his social media platform to recall the late leader’s contribution, stating that Sardar Patel was “the driving force behind India’s integration, thus shaping our nation’s destiny in its formative years.”
• Reaffirmation of Vision: The Prime Minister concluded his message by reaffirming the collective resolve to uphold Sardar Patel’s vision of a “united, strong and self-reliant India.”

Recalling Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti Legacy

Born on October 31, 1875, this celebration of Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti is not merely an observance of a birth date but a potent recollection of a life dedicated to the nation. His appellation, the “Iron Man of India,” was earned through his unwavering commitment and political will, especially during the critical task of merging over 560 princely states into the Indian Union. His leadership ensured that India emerged from the throes of Independence as a unified and dignified nation, laying the groundwork for its future democratic success.

The indelible mark of Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti is seen in the physical symbol of the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, standing at 182 metres in Gujarat. Every year, the nation pays tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, using the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to offer heartfelt tributes and reaffirm the core values of unity and strength that he championed.

Conclusion

As the day concludes, the resounding message from Sardar Patel’s 150th Jayanti celebrations remains clear: the preservation of India’s unity, integrity, and security is a perpetual national duty. From the solemn tributes at Delhi’s Patel Chowk to the massive public oath at the Statue of Unity, the celebrations served to reinforce the collective commitment of the government and the citizenry to the noble principles upheld by the ‘Iron Man of India’. His legacy is a continuing source of national inspiration, urging every citizen to contribute to a united, strong, and self-reliant India.