PM Modi Interacts with Sardar Patel’s Family as Nation Marks 150th Birth Anniversary

Ahmedabad, Oct 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity, marking the milestone with a solemn and emotionally resonant ceremony. Adding to the significance of the moment was the presence of several descendants of the ‘Iron Man of India’, who joined the nation in honouring the legendary leader.

“India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India’s integration, shaping our nation’s destiny in its formative years. His unwavering commitment to national integrity, good governance, and public service continues to inspire generations. We also reaffirm our collective resolve to uphold his vision of a united, strong, and self-reliant India,” Prime Minister Modi said.

The occasion, observed nationwide as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), witnessed vibrant celebrations in Ekta Nagar, where the world’s tallest statue stands as a tribute to Patel’s statesmanship. The event featured a dynamic Unity Parade, cultural performances, and displays highlighting Patel’s historic leadership in integrating 562 princely states into the Indian Union after Independence.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who attended the ceremony, announced that the Unity Parade will now be held annually, making it a recurring national celebration of unity and patriotic commitment.

The presence of Sardar Patel’s family added a deeply personal dimension to the event. Among the attendees were Patel’s grandson Gautam Dahyabhai Patel (80) and his wife Dr. Nandita Gautam Patel (79); their son Kedar Gautam Patel (47), his wife Reena Patel (47), and their daughter Kareena Kedar Patel (13), representing the fifth generation of the family. Also present were Sameer Indrakant Patel (68) and his wife Rita S. Patel (66). Officials noted that the family’s presence enhanced the emotional significance of the 150th-anniversary commemoration.

Over the years, Ekta Nagar has evolved from a tourism landmark into a symbol of national unity and pride. The 150th birth anniversary celebrations, attended by dignitaries, security forces, and thousands of citizens, further cemented its status as a centrepiece of India’s unity narrative.

On the eve of the anniversary, October 30, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and dedicated ₹1,220 crore worth of development projects in Ekta Nagar. These initiatives span tourism, sports, infrastructure, and sustainability, and are aimed at transforming the region into a model of integrated and inclusive development.

To mark the special occasion, the Prime Minister also unveiled a ₹150 commemorative coin and a special postal stamp, released by the Reserve Bank of India and India Post respectively, celebrating Sardar Patel’s extraordinary contribution to building a united India.

Nationwide celebrations—including the Run for Unity, public events, cultural showcases, and the 15-day Bharat Parv dedicated to tribal heritage and India’s cultural diversity—reinforced the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”

The tribute at the Statue of Unity, enriched by the presence of Patel’s descendants, served as a powerful reminder of Sardar Patel’s enduring legacy and the values of unity and nation-building that continue to guide India today.