National Unity Day

Introduction

India is celebrating October 31 as National Unity Day to pay tribute to veteran freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a prominent role in the unification of India. Sardar Patel had plunged into the mission of unifying India after independence. For integrating more than 500 princely states, he was even given the title of ‘Iron Man of India’.

Why is National Unity Day Celebrated?

In 2014, the government declared that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary on October 31 to be celebrated as National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. It will provide an opportunity to reaffirm our nation’s inherent strength and resilience to withstand the potential threats to the unity and integrity of our country.” As the country remains grateful for Patel’s crucial efforts leading to the integration of India, this day is celebrated as a homage to that “national unity”.

A Journey from a Barrister to a Leader

Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, a barrister by profession, was deeply saddened by the condition of the common people around him. He was against the tyranny of the British government. With a strong urge to change the despotic system led by the British, he dived into the freedom struggle.

This charismatic leader not only stood for his values but also valued the views of those who disagreed with him. He strongly believed in the unity of Indians and their determination towards Swarajya. Sardar Patel was an outspoken supporter of women’s liberation and self-sufficiency.

Vallabhbhai supported Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement and began wearing only khadi clothes. He rose to the topmost leader of the Indian National Congress, where he organized the party for elections in 1934 and 1937 while also promoting the Quit India Movement.

Sardar Patel used diplomacy, mediation, and foresight to get the various princely states into the Indian Union without bloodshed. His most lasting legacy is his attempts to unite a dispersed country, where his persuasive skills and statesmanship were tested. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was tasked with the monumental mission of political integration in India, and he is responsible for uniting the country’s 562 princely states. Along with this, another part of the nation did not go unnoticed,  ‘Lakshadweep’; Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel sent the Indian Navy to ‘Lakshadweep’ at the right time and made it a part of India.

What Your Child Can Learn from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel?

Amazing Facts About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Sardar Patel became Independent India’s first Deputy Prime Minister.
• The Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the statue of unity, is 182m high, making it the tallest in the world. It was built on the bank of the river Narmada.
• Sardar Patel, who is known as the “Iron Man of India” and Bismarck of India for his effort to the unification of India.