Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man of India
Table of Contents:-About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born on 31st October, 1875 in Nadiad, Gujrat. He came from a humble background but possessed in indomitable spirit and a strong sense of duty towards his nation. Patel studied law in England and returned to India to purse a legal career. However, he soon became involved in the Indian freedom struggle, inspired by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.Patel played a vital role in various freedom movement and was an integral part of the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement against British colonial rule. His dedication to the cause of independence and his leadership qualifies earned him the title of “Sardar”, which means “Leader” or “Chief” in Hindi.One of Sardar Patel’s most remarkable achievement was the successful integration of the princely states into the Indian Union. He used a combination of diplomacy, negotiations and when necessary, force to persuade these states to join India. His unwavering commitment to national unity and his ability to navigate the complex web of princely states earned him the nickname “Iron Man of India”. Through his efforts, Patel helped shape the geographical and political contours of modern India.Sardar Patel also served as the India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Affairs. In his capacity, He played a crucial role in formulating policies and laying the foundation for a strong, united and democratic India. He oversaw the integration of diverse regions, languages and the cultures into a single nation.Tragically, Sardar Patel’s life was short when he passed away on December 15, 1950. However, his legacy continues to inspire generations of Indians and his contribution to the nation are celebrated every year on National Unity Day.
National Unity Day in India:
National Unity Day in India, also known as Rastriya Ekta Diwas, is a significant observance in India that is celebrated on the 31st of October every year. This day holds a special place in the hearts of Indians as it commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the country’s founding fathers and an architect of modern India. The primary purpose of National Unity Day is to remember Sardar Patel’s contributions to the nation and to promote unity, integrity, and the spirit of one India among its diverse population. In this essay we will explore the history of National Unity Day, delve into the life and achievements of Sardar Patel, and discuss the importance of Unity in a diverse and multicultural country like India.
History of National Unity Day :
National Unity Day was established in India in 2014 by the then Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The idea behind this observance was to pay tribute to Sardar Patel, whose efforts played a pivotal role in unifying the country after gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1947, Sardar Patel, often referred to as the “Iron Man of India,” served as the Deputy Prime Minister and the first Minister of Home Affairs in independence India.
One of the most significant challenges India faced after gaining independence was the presence of over 560 princely states, each with its own ruler, and their reluctance to join the newly formed Indian Union.
Sardar Patel took on the Herculean task of integrating these princely states into a unified and cohesive nation. Through a combination of diplomacy, persuasion and when necessary, military action, Sardar Patel successfully convicted the princely states to accede to India. This process of integration was a monumental achievement and demonstrated Sardar Patel’s unwavering commitment to national unity.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man of India
Importance of National Unity Day:
National Unity Day holds immense significance for several reasons-
1. Holding Sardar Patel’s Legacy: National Unity Day is a tribute to the memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s, a leader whose vision, determination and leadership were instrumental in shaping modern India. By celebrating this day, India remembers and acknowledges his invaluable contributions.
2. Promoting Unity in Diversity: India is a diverse nation with a multitude of languages, religions, cultures and traditions. National Unity Day serves as a reminder that despite respecting and valuing this diversity while staying connected one nation.
3. Strengthening National Integration: This integration of princely states into the Indian Union Sardar Patel is a remarkable example of how a united India can overcome internal divisions. National Unity Day encourages the continuation of these efforts to foster a sense of belonging among all citizens.
4. Inspiring Patriotism: The observance of National Unity Day instills a sense of patriotism and national pride among citizens. It reminds them of the sacrifices made by leaders like Sardar Patel’s and the importance of working together for the greater good of the nation.
5. Educating the Youth: National Unity Day provides an opportunity to educate the younger generation about the history and significance of Sardar Patel’s contributions. It helps in nurturing about a sense of responsibility and civic among the youth.
6. Promoting Social Cohesion: In a country as vast and diverse as India, social cohesion is crucial for its progress and development. National Unity Day encourages people to come together, bridge differences and work towards a harmonious society.
7. Fostering Peace and Stability: Unity and national integration are essential for maintaining peace and stability within a country. By celebrating National Unity Day, India reaffirms its commitment to these principles, contributing to the country’s overall well-being.
8. International Recognition: National Unity Day also sends a message to the international community about India’s commitment to unity, peace and democracy. It highlights India’s unique ability to manage its diversity while remaining a strong and united nation.
1. Holding Sardar Patel’s Legacy: National Unity Day is a tribute to the memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s, a leader whose vision, determination and leadership were instrumental in shaping modern India. By celebrating this day, India remembers and acknowledges his invaluable contributions.
2. Promoting Unity in Diversity: India is a diverse nation with a multitude of languages, religions, cultures and traditions. National Unity Day serves as a reminder that despite respecting and valuing this diversity while staying connected one nation.
3. Strengthening National Integration: This integration of princely states into the Indian Union Sardar Patel is a remarkable example of how a united India can overcome internal divisions. National Unity Day encourages the continuation of these efforts to foster a sense of belonging among all citizens.
4. Inspiring Patriotism: The observance of National Unity Day instills a sense of patriotism and national pride among citizens. It reminds them of the sacrifices made by leaders like Sardar Patel’s and the importance of working together for the greater good of the nation.
5. Educating the Youth: National Unity Day provides an opportunity to educate the younger generation about the history and significance of Sardar Patel’s contributions. It helps in nurturing about a sense of responsibility and civic among the youth.
6. Promoting Social Cohesion: In a country as vast and diverse as India, social cohesion is crucial for its progress and development. National Unity Day encourages people to come together, bridge differences and work towards a harmonious society.
7. Fostering Peace and Stability: Unity and national integration are essential for maintaining peace and stability within a country. By celebrating National Unity Day, India reaffirms its commitment to these principles, contributing to the country’s overall well-being.
8. International Recognition: National Unity Day also sends a message to the international community about India’s commitment to unity, peace and democracy. It highlights India’s unique ability to manage its diversity while remaining a strong and united nation.
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Celebration on National Unity Day:
National Unity Day is Celebrated with various events and activities across India. Some of the common ways in which the day observed include:
1. Statue of Unity: The Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, was inaugurated in Gujrat on 31, October, 2018 as a tribute to Sardar Patel. It has become a significant symbol of National Unity and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
2. Run for Unity: One of the flagship events on National Unity Day is the “Run for Unity” or “Rastra Ekta Diwas Run”. People from all walks of life participate in this run to express their solidarity and commitment to national unity.
3. Pledge-taking Ceremonies: Schools, colleges, government offices and various organizations conduct pledge-taking ceremonies where individuals reaffirm their commitment to the unity and integrity of India.
4. Cultural programs: Cultural events, seminars and
discussions are organized to promote the values of unity in diversity and to
educate people about the life and contributions of Patel.
5. Essar and Art competitions: Educational institutions often organize essay writing and art competitions on the theme of national unity. This encourages students to reflect on the importance of unity in India.
6. Community Services: Some groups use National Unity Day as an opportunity to engage in community service activities, emphasizing the idea of working together for the betterment of society.
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1. Statue of Unity: The Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, was inaugurated in Gujrat on 31, October, 2018 as a tribute to Sardar Patel. It has become a significant symbol of National Unity and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
2. Run for Unity: One of the flagship events on National Unity Day is the “Run for Unity” or “Rastra Ekta Diwas Run”. People from all walks of life participate in this run to express their solidarity and commitment to national unity.
3. Pledge-taking Ceremonies: Schools, colleges, government offices and various organizations conduct pledge-taking ceremonies where individuals reaffirm their commitment to the unity and integrity of India.
4. Cultural programs: Cultural events, seminars and
discussions are organized to promote the values of unity in diversity and to
educate people about the life and contributions of Patel.
5. Essar and Art competitions: Educational institutions often organize essay writing and art competitions on the theme of national unity. This encourages students to reflect on the importance of unity in India.
6. Community Services: Some groups use National Unity Day as an opportunity to engage in community service activities, emphasizing the idea of working together for the betterment of society.
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Books:
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, prominent figure in the Indian
independence movement and the first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home
Affairs of India, did nor write as many books as some of others, but he did contribute
to the literacy world. Some of his works and collections of his speeches and letters
include:1. “Vallabhbhai Patel: His Life and Times"
This
is a collection biography of Sardar Patel written by Rajmohan Gandhi. While not
written by Patel himself, it offers an in-depth look at his life and
contributions.
2. “Selected Speeches and Writings of Sardar Patel”
This collection brings together some of Sardar Patel’s most significant
speeches and writings, providing insights into his political thoughts and action.
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