National Unity Day 2025: History, Significance, and Why Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Is Celebrated
Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead elaborate celebrations in Gujarat’s Ekta Nagar, the day honours the Iron Man of India and his role in uniting the nation
New Delhi, Oct 29: India is set to celebrate National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) on October 31, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the nation’s first Deputy Prime Minister and the man credited with unifying over 560 princely states into a single nation. The celebrations will be held on a grand scale at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the event.
Officials said this year’s commemoration will be among the most elaborate so far, featuring a special parade inspired by the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, along with cultural performances, exhibitions, and a unity pledge ceremony.
Remembering the Iron Man of India
Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel began his career as a lawyer but soon joined Mahatma Gandhi’s freedom movement. His leadership during the Kheda Satyagraha (1918) and Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) earned him nationwide respect and the title “Sardar”, meaning leader.
Following independence, Patel played a historic role in integrating more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union — a feat that earned him the title “Iron Man of India”. His vision and steadfast resolve laid the foundation for a united, democratic India.
Why National Unity Day Is Celebrated
The Government of India introduced Rashtriya Ekta Diwas in 2014 to honour Patel’s monumental contribution to national integration. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, strength, and national harmony.
Across the country, schools, colleges, and government institutions organize events such as debates, cultural programs, art competitions, and unity runs to spread the message of collective strength and patriotism.
The Statue of Unity: A Living Tribute
Standing at 182 meters, the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, is the world’s tallest statue and a symbol of Patel’s enduring legacy. Inaugurated on October 31, 2018, the monument overlooks the Narmada River and has become one of India’s top tourist destinations.
Beyond being a monument, the site offers a holistic cultural experience from a Laser Light and Sound Show depicting Patel’s life and achievements to the Valley of Flowers, which features over two million plants. The nearby Sardar Sarovar Dam, one of the largest concrete gravity dams in the world, adds to the grandeur of the landscape.
As the nation celebrates National Unity Day 2025, the occasion stands as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of a strong, united India, inspiring generations to uphold the spirit of oneness and integrity.
