Every year on October 31, India observes Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the visionary leader who played a defining role in shaping modern India. More than just a ceremonial occasion, Ekta Diwas stands as a reminder of Patel’s unmatched contribution to the integration of the nation and his enduring message of unity and national integrity.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, fondly remembered as the Iron Man of India, was born in 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat. A man of steely resolve and unwavering patriotism, Patel was instrumental in leading India through one of its most complex political challenges—uniting a country that had just gained independence but was deeply fragmented.

At the time of independence in 1947, India consisted of 562 princely states, many of which were reluctant to join the newly formed Union. Through his sharp political acumen, persuasive diplomacy, and firm determination, Patel managed to bring almost all of them into the Indian fold, ensuring the nation’s territorial and political unity. His efforts prevented potential disintegration and laid the groundwork for a stable, democratic India.

Recognising his invaluable contribution, the Government of India declared October 31 as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) in 2014. The objective was not only to honour Patel’s legacy but also to reinforce the spirit of unity, integrity, and collective strength among citizens. The day serves as an occasion to remind every Indian of the importance of standing together despite differences in culture, language, and belief.

Across the country, Ekta Diwas is observed through a variety of programmes and events. The most prominent among them is the “Run for Unity,” a nationwide marathon that symbolises the message of harmony and togetherness. Educational institutions, government offices, and community organisations hold pledge ceremonies, cultural performances, and discussions on national integration. At the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat—the tallest statue in the world at 182 metres—leaders and citizens alike gather to pay tribute to Patel’s life and ideals.

The celebration of Ekta Diwas carries profound contemporary relevance. In a world often divided by regional, linguistic, or ideological boundaries, Patel’s vision offers timeless wisdom: that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to stay united while embracing its diversity. His belief that “manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonised and united properly” continues to resonate deeply today.

As India continues its journey as one of the world’s largest democracies, the ideals Sardar Patel stood for remain as vital as ever. Ekta Diwas is not just a commemoration of history—it is a reaffirmation of the values that hold the nation together. By remembering Patel’s life and legacy, India celebrates not only a leader but also the enduring idea of unity that defines the essence of the nation.