On the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid rich tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s “Iron Man,” highlighting his unmatched role in unifying the nation post-independence. Shah announced a series of grand celebrations to commemorate Patel’s 150th birth anniversary, including a Republic Day-style parade and nationwide unity events.
Starting this year, a grand parade modelled on the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi will be held every October 31 at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to honour Patel’s legacy. The first parade is scheduled for October 31, 2025, marking the historic milestone of his 150th birth anniversary. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the inaugural event at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar.
Amit Shah also unveiled plans for a fortnight-long cultural festival – “Bharat Parv 2025”, to be held from November 1 to November 15, 2025, at Ekta Nagar. The event will feature state-wise cultural showcases, food festivals, and art exhibitions, celebrating India’s diversity and unity. The festivities will culminate on November 15 with Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day), honouring tribal hero Birsa Munda and India’s rich tribal heritage.
To further strengthen the spirit of unity, Amit Shah announced the nationwide expansion of the “Run for Unity” campaign, which will now encompass every state, union territory, district, police station, school, and university across the country.
In his address, Amit Shah also took a swipe at the Congress, accusing it of having sidelined Sardar Patel’s contributions after independence. Amit Shah noted that Patel was awarded the Bharat Ratna only after 41 years, and no memorial was built in his name until the Statue of Unity was erected under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.
With these landmark celebrations, the government aims to honour Patel’s enduring vision of a united India while rekindling a sense of national pride and collective identity among citizens.
