PM Modi Leads 150th Birth Anniversary Tribute to Sardar Patel at Statue of Unity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the legendary "Iron Man of India," by offering floral tributes at the world's tallest statue—the iconic 182-meter Statue of Unity in Gujarat's Narmada district. The momentous event, held on Friday in the specially renamed Ekta Nagar, transformed into a grand spectacle of unity, patriotism, and cultural extravaganza, drawing thousands to witness history unfold under the shadow of Patel's towering bronze likeness overlooking the Narmada River.

The day, officially observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) since its inception in 2014 under Modi's leadership, honors Patel's unparalleled role in forging modern India by integrating over 560 princely states into a single sovereign nation after independence. Dressed in traditional attire, Modi solemnly placed garlands at the statue's base before proceeding to a nearby venue where he administered the solemn Ekta Diwas pledge to a sea of attendees, reaffirming vows of national integrity and harmony. The pledge ceremony, broadcast live across the country, resonated deeply as citizens from all walks of life echoed the commitment to preserve India's unbreakable unity.

What elevated this year's celebrations to unprecedented heights was the organization of a Republic Day-style grand parade, complete with marching contingents from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and elite units from various state police forces. Precision drills, vibrant tableaux depicting India's diverse cultures, and a dazzling cultural festival turned the venue into a vibrant tapestry of national fervor. For the first time, the parade mirrored the pomp and pageantry of New Delhi's Kartavya Path, symbolizing Patel's enduring vision of a united India and marking a milestone in how National Unity Day is observed nationwide.

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Joining the chorus of tributes, President Droupadi Murmu extended heartfelt greetings to the nation, hailing Patel as a "great patriot, visionary leader, and nation-builder" whose "unwavering resolve, indomitable courage, and adept leadership" accomplished the historic unification of India. In a powerful message posted on X in Hindi, she urged every citizen to "unite together and resolve to build a strong, harmonious, and excellent India," emphasizing that Patel's dedication to national service continues to inspire generations. Murmu paid personal homage at Sardar Patel Chowk in the capital and offered floral tributes at Gantantra Mandap in Rashtrapati Bhavan, underscoring the bipartisan reverence for the Iron Man's legacy.

As the sun set over the Statue of Unity— a marvel of engineering that attracts over 30,000 visitors daily—the 150th birth anniversary celebrations culminated in a resounding message: Sardar Patel's dream of Ekta (unity) remains the bedrock of India's progress. From Gujarat's riverbanks to the heart of the national capital, the day reaffirmed that in a diverse nation of 1.4 billion people, the Iron Man's spirit binds us all in an unbreakable chain of solidarity and strength.

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