Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat’s Narmada district, marking the occasion with solemn reverence and national pride.
Visuals from the ceremony showed the Prime Minister performing the ‘Abhishek’ ritual at the feet of the world’s tallest statue, followed by a floral tribute and a folded-hand salute before the monumental figure of the Iron Man of India.
In his message on X, Modi hailed Patel’s pivotal role in shaping modern India. He wrote, “India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India’s integration, shaping the nation’s destiny in its formative years. His unwavering commitment to national integrity, good governance and public service continues to inspire generations. We reaffirm our resolve to uphold his vision of a united, strong and self-reliant India.” (Source: X/@narendramodi)
This year’s Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar were organised on an unprecedented scale, echoing the grandeur of a Republic Day parade. The ceremony highlighted India’s unity in diversity through multiple tableaux and performances representing various states and institutions.
Contingents from BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB marched in a grand display of discipline and patriotism. Ten thematic tableaus—featuring the NSG, NDRF, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Manipur, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Puducherry—depicted the spirit of national integration under the theme “Unity in Diversity.”
Adding to the vibrancy, a cultural programme of 900 artists showcased India’s classical dance forms and regional traditions, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and collective identity.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier announced that October 31 will see an annual grand parade at Ekta Nagar to commemorate Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary, institutionalising the celebration of National Unity Day at the Statue of Unity.
