Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in paying homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.
Patel’s family members made the solemn occasion special as they joined in offering floral tributes to India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and unifier.
PM Modi described Patel as the “driving force behind India’s integration.” He also hailed his commitment to integrity, governance, and public service.
“His vision of a united and self-reliant India continues to inspire generations,” the Prime Minister said. He reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to uphold Patel’s ideals.
The day, observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), featured a grand Unity Parade, vibrant cultural performances, and displays highlighting India’s strength in diversity. The event honoured Patel’s role in merging 562 princely states into an independent and unified India.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the gathering. He announced that organisers would hold the Unity Parade every year as a national tradition to celebrate Patel’s legacy of unity and strength.
Family’s Presence Adds Emotional Touch
Several descendants of Sardar Patel joined the commemoration, lending a personal dimension to the ceremony. Among those present were his grandson Gautam Dahyabhai Patel (80), his wife Dr Nandita Gautam Patel (79), their son Kedar Gautam Patel (47), his wife Reena Patel (47), and their daughter Kareena Kedar Patel (13), the fifth generation of the Patel family. Also attending were Sameer Indrakant Patel (68) and Rita S. Patel (66).
Officials noted that their presence deepened the symbolic value of the event. Ekta Nagar has evolved from a tourist destination into a living emblem of India’s unity and pride.
Ahead of the anniversary, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and dedicated projects worth ₹1,220 crore in Ekta Nagar. These initiatives focused on tourism, sports, and infrastructure, aiming to promote sustainable development.
He also unveiled a ₹150 commemorative coin and a special postal stamp in honour of Patel’s contribution to nation-building.
Across India, Run for Unity and Bharat Parv events celebrated the country’s rich cultural and tribal heritage. These celebrations reinforced Patel’s timeless message of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
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