Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the country in celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. The day is marked as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to honour India’s first Home Minister and his role in bringing the country together after independence.

PM Modi reached the 182-metre-tall Statue of Unity in Narmada district early in the morning, where he offered prayers and paid floral tributes to Sardar Patel. The programme began with Ekta Diwas Samaroh, a ceremony showing India’s unity, discipline, and cultural diversity.

The Prime Minister also led the National Unity Pledge, asking people to work for the unity of the nation.

Speaking at the event, PM Modi said, "After Independence, Sardar Patel accomplished the seemingly impossible task of uniting over 550 princely states. For him, the vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat was paramount. We will uphold his vision."

He added, "Today crores of people took the oath of unity. We have resolved that we will promote such actions that strengthen the unity of the nation...Every thought or action that weakens the unity of our nation must be shunned by every citizen. This is the need of the hour for our country."

The celebration featured the launch of the Ekta Parade, led entirely by women officers. Units from the Police, Central Armed Police Forces, NCC cadets, and marching bands took part. The parade also showcased mounted units with horses, camels, and trained dogs.

The programme included special displays such as:

  • Women’s weapon drill

  • Martial arts demonstrations

  • Daredevil motorcycle stunts

  • Unarmed combat performances

  • NCC cultural show

There were also tableaux from various states, school band performances, and a cultural event organised by the Ministry of Culture. The Indian Air Force ended the ceremony with an air show.

Before reaching the event, PM Modi posted on X, saying: "India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India’s integration... We also reaffirm our collective resolve to uphold his vision of a united, strong, and self-reliant India."

A day earlier, the Prime Minister met the family members of Sardar Patel in Ekta Nagar. Gautam Patel, Sardar Patel’s grandson, attended the programme along with family members.

PM Modi wrote on X, "Met the family of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Kevadia. It was a delight to interact with them and recall the monumental contribution of Sardar Patel to our nation."