Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat on the occasion of the Iron Man’s 150th birth anniversary.

“India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India’s integration, thus shaping our nation’s destiny in its formative years,” the Prime Minister said in his address. “His unwavering commitment to national integrity, good governance and public service continues to inspire generations. We also reaffirm our collective resolve to uphold his vision of a united, strong and self-reliant India,” he added.

Ekta Diwas celebrations

After the tribute ceremony, PM Modi proceeded to a nearby venue to administer the Ekta Diwas pledge and attend the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade. This year’s celebrations feature a cultural festival alongside the National Unity Day parade, which includes contingents from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and various state police units, according to PTI.

A special highlight of this year’s event is that the parade has been organised in the style of the Republic Day parade, with elaborate displays celebrating India’s diversity and unity.

President Murmu’s tribute

Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage to Sardar Patel, describing him as a “great patriot, visionary leader, and nation-builder.”

“On the birth anniversary of the ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all my fellow citizens,” she said in her message. “Sardar Patel accomplished the historic task of unifying the country through his unwavering resolve, indomitable courage, and adept leadership. His dedication and spirit of national service serve as an inspiration to us all.”

She urged citizens to use the occasion of National Unity Day to “unite together and resolve to build a strong, harmonious, and excellent India.”

Sardar Patel’s legacy

Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel served as India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Known as the “Iron Man of India,” Patel was instrumental in integrating more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union after Independence — a monumental task that helped shape India into a unified nation.

Every year, the country commemorates his birth anniversary as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), reaffirming the values of unity, integrity, and nation-building that Patel championed throughout his life.