Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th Birth Anniversary to Spark Grand National Celebrations at Statue of Unity

The landmark 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, famously hailed as the ‘Iron Man of India’, will be celebrated with unmatched grandeur at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the nationwide Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31, marking Patel’s monumental contributions to uniting over 560 princely states post-independence.

The day’s highlight will be a Republic Day–style parade featuring 16 contingents from central and state armed forces, including the BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and police forces from across India. Distinctive units such as the BSF’s Rampur and Mudhol Hounds, Gujarat Police’s Horse Contingent, Assam Police’s Motorcycle Daredevil Show, and a camel-mounted band will add color and pride. Gallantry awardees including Shaurya Chakra recipients will be honored for bravery in counter-terror and anti-Naxal operations.

Cultural extravaganzas will feature over 900 artists showcasing India’s diverse classical dances, martial arts, and traditional music underscoring the ‘Unity in Diversity’ theme. Additionally, PM Modi will release a special ₹150 commemorative coin and postage stamp to honor Patel’s enduring legacy.

Beyond the main event, a nationwide Sardar@150 Unity March is underway, with padyatras (marches), cleanliness drives, tree plantations under “Sardar Upvan,” women’s welfare camps, and youth-centric campaigns promoting Patel’s vision of a united India. A 150 km padyatra from Karamsad – Patel’s birthplace – to the Statue of Unity will be held from November 26 to December 6.

These comprehensive celebrations reaffirm the nation’s commitment to uphold Patel’s ideals of integration, unity, and national strength as India marches steadily towards a prosperous future.

Key Highlights:

• 150th birth anniversary celebrated on October 31 at Statue of Unity, Gujarat.
• PM Modi leads Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade with central and state armed contingents.
• Special honors for Shaurya Chakra awardees and gallantry medal recipients.
• Cultural gala with 900+ artists representing India’s rich diversity.
• Release of ₹150 commemorative coin and postage stamp by PM Modi.
• Nationwide Sardar@150 Unity March includes padyatras, cleanliness and welfare drives.
• 150 km padyatra from Karamsad to Ekta Nagar scheduled November 26–December 6.
• Events emphasize ‘Unity in Diversity’ aligning with Patel’s vision of a united India.

Sources: PIB, PM India, ANI News, Hindustan Times, The Statesman, My Bharat