While observing National Unity Day 2025 on October 31 will entail a national holiday rich in celebrations commemorating the 150th birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India. and was instrumental in uniting over 560 princely states after independence, Patel’s legacy remains a source of India’s unity and administrative resilience. From robust parades at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat to unity runs in schools and colleges across the country, the government of India will hold a series of events over the next year in acknowledgement of Patel’s vision “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Patel was one of the architects of India’s unity and the modern state
As a pragmatic leader, interested in governance rather than politics during India’s most unstable period, Patel was responsible for uniting India peacefully. Through firm yet diplomatic tactics, Patel turned political anarchy into an administrative system. As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Patel established the basis of the system of civil services, which governs the integrity of service to policymakers today.
Patel understood the importance of a federal system of government accountable to the principle of local self-government, which makes him one of the most significant nation builders in Indian history.
National Celebrations and Events
The Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated a number of activities, such as the “Run for Unity,” exhibitions, documentaries, and social media campaigns showcasing Sardar Patel’s life and legacy. Students and citizens will take a Unity Pledge to reinforce their commitment to national unity.
At the Statue of Unity, a laser show and cultural presentations will represent Patel’s journey—from a freedom fighter to an architect who shaped India’s destiny.
How Sardar Patel’s Perspective Provided the Framework for Modern Governance
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s leadership established the very template of India’s democracy. As the first Home Minister of India, he facilitated the merger of more than 560 princely states, establishing a vibrant, integrated nation. His prescience resulted in the development of the All India Services, which established a basis for discipline and efficiency in administration.
Patel thought governance should primarily serve the people, rather than politics. His pragmatic style and steadfast dedication to unity helped create the underpinning of a receptive, responsive, and accountable government. Even today, his vision continues to define India’s governance and fortifies prosperity for national integration.
A Legacy for Today
Since inaugurating the world’s tallest statue of Patel in 2018, PM Narendra Modi has referred to Patel as “the man who turned the idea of India into a reality.” Modi is expected to give a message to the nation on October 31 underlining Patel’s ideals of unity, discipline, and service to the nation.
As India celebrates Sardar Patel 150, across generations of citizens will be reminded that the foundations of modern governance, unity, integrity, and powerful leadership were built by a man who held the country together at the most needed time.
