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In 2014, the central government declared Sardar Patel’s Birth Anniversary to be observed as the National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the ‘Iron Man of India’, holds a revered place in India’s political history. His relentless efforts in uniting over 562 princely states just after Independence laid the foundation for a unified India, bringing together diverse regions, cultures and communities.
Sardar Patel’s vision, as the first Home Minister of India, extended beyond political unification of these princely states. He believed in an India united by shared values, brotherhood and harmony eliminating the barriers of regional, religious and caste-based differences. His legacy, rooted in a dream for a unified nation, reshaped India’s political roadmap in the initial years and still inspires millions to work for the country.
In honour of his legacy, his birth anniversary is celebrated as National Unity Day every year on October 31. On this occasion, every year, people reflect on the visionary leader’s profound contributions to India’s independence and unity. This day not only marks his birth anniversary but also serves as a call to strengthen the bonds of unity and integrity among citizens.
Why October 31 Is Observed as National Unity Day?
In 2014, the central government declared Sardar Patel’s Birth Anniversary to be observed as the National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. Sardar Patel’s life was dedicated to the ideals of unity, strength and resilience.
As one of the senior leaders of Indian National Congress, he played a crucial role in the freedom movement while working closely with Mahatma Gandhi. After Independence, he became the first Home Minister of India in the government led by Prime MinisterJawaharlal Nehru.
It was a massive challenge to bring nearly 562 princely states together under the Union of India. Despite all the adversities faced by a newly independent nation, Sardar Patel successfully completed the integration of these princely states. This laid the foundation for India’s territorial integrity as a free nation.
Sardar Patel’s diplomatic skills and unwavering determination were instrumental in bringing together a newly independent India and establishing a stable foundation for the nation’s future. That’s why his birth anniversary is a celebration of India’s unity.
The Rashtriya Ekta or the National Unity Day reminds us of the ideology of Sardar Patel and his contributions to nation building.
Interesting Facts About Sardar Patel’s Life
Here are some notable, yet lesser-known facts that highlight Patel’s contributions and his enduring impact on Indian society:
- As a senior Congress leader, Patel assumed the role of India’s first Deputy Prime Minister after Independence.
- He held the portfolios of Home Affairs, States and Information and Broadcasting.
- Initially uninterested in politics, he was inspired to join the freedom movement after meeting Mahatma Gandhi in 1917. He joined the Congress and became secretary of its Gujarat Sabha.
- At 36, Patel travelled to England to join a three-year law course at the Inns of Court Middle Temple in London.
- He completed his law course within just 30 months, instead of 36 months, and qualified as a barrister.
- An ardent supporter of Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement, Patel toured western India to mobilise 300,000 members and raised funds exceeding Rs 15 lakh.
- Sardar Patel throughout his political career fought against social injustices, including untouchability, alcohol consumption and caste discriminations, while promoting women’s empowerment.
- In 1928, Patel led the landowners of Bardoli in a successful campaign against a hike in taxes. His remarkable leadership during the Bardoli movement earned him the title of Sardar, meaning leader.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Quotes
Here are some quotes by Sardar Patel that reflect his wisdom, integrity, and unshakeable faith in the strength of unity:
- “Every Indian should now forget that he is a Rajput, a Sikh, or a Jat. He must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in his country but with certain duties.”
- “Take to the path of dharma – the path of truth and justice. Don’t misuse your valour. Remain united. March forward in all humility, but fully awake to the situation you face, demanding your rights and firmness.”
- “A war based on Satyagraha is always of two kinds. One is the war we wage against injustice and the other we fight against our own weaknesses.”
- “No distinctions of caste and creed should hamper us. All are the sons and daughters of India. We should all love our country and build our destiny on mutual love and help.”
- “The negligence of a few could easily send a ship to the bottom, but if it has the wholehearted cooperation of all on board; she could be safely brought to port.”
- “The war started by Mahatmaji is against two things – the Government and secondly against oneself. The former kind of war is closed, but the latter shall never cease. It is meant for self-purification.”
- “Faith is of no evil in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work.”
- “We have tried to overcome our weaknesses honestly and in a definite manner. The proof, if any proof is needed, is Hindu-Muslim unity.”