Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the country in commemorating the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary, or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas — National Unity Day 2025. This milestone event was a unique opportunity to pay homage to Patel’s unparalleled contribution to the unity and integrity of India.
At the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, in the State of Gujarat, the Prime Minister laid floral arrangements and spoke to thousands assembled to observe the momentous occasion. “We will carry forward the vision of Patel for a united India and will always strive to strengthen the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,’” said the Prime Minister, referring to Patel’s key role in uniting the nation following its independence.
Nationwide Celebrations Commemorate 150th Anniversary
Nationwide events and activities put into practice the values of unity, integrity and selfless service for which Sardar Patel was emblematic. Schools, universities and government offices organized “Run for Unity” celebrations and essay competitions and other events commemorating Patel’s vision of an integrated India through cultural programs.
Union ministers, chief ministers and governors across states paid floral tributes, and exhibitions and special displays shared Patel’s historic role in unifying over 560 princely states into the Indian Union — an unprecedented and monumental task and the foundation of the formation of modern India.
PM Modi Launches a Special Exhibition in Kevadia
In the meeting, Prime Minister Modi launched a grand exhibit that covers the life and achievements of Sardar Patel. The large exhibition documents the life and journey of Patel through rare photos, speeches, and documents from the time he started with the freedom movement of India until he became the Deputy Prime Minister and Home minister of India.
PM Modi stated Sardar Patel’s administration and foresight still guide India’s governance today. “From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, the one India dream of Sardar Patel is what is taking India to great heights,” he said
Nation Shines in Honour of the Spirit of Unity
The Statue of Unity and the whole town of Kevadia shone bright in tricolour lights, a display of national pride and collective strength. #SardarPatel150 and #NationalUnityDay trended as people shared loving tributes, quotations, and memories of India’s Iron Man on social media.
As India celebrates 150 years of Sardar Patel’s birth, the message was clear throughout the nation — unity is India’s greatest strength, and Patel’s vision remains its guiding philosophy.
