A grand national celebration has been planned to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the Iron Man of India, who played a crucial role in uniting 562 princely states into a single, independent India. The celebration aims to honour Patel’s efforts in strengthening national unity and pride.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Surat-based organisation ‘Bharat-Bharati,’ which has a longstanding commitment to promoting national unity.
The entire celebration is structured into five phases and meticulously planned five months in advance. The primary event is set for October 31 2025, commemorating Patel’s birth anniversary. Patel, born in Karamsad, Gujarat, on October 31, 1875, played an instrumental role in shaping modern India.
Key events in the celebration include ‘Sardar Ekta Sammelans‘—gatherings across the country involving influential leaders such as the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, social and religious figures, and experts from literature, art, science, and industry.
A Mahasammelan will take place at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, Patel’s dedicated monument. This event will gather leaders from the Gujarati community and representatives from diverse linguistic backgrounds across India. During this Mahasammelan, the ‘Bharati Bhushan’ awards will be conferred upon respected social leaders for their contributions to society.
Introductory meetings are planned for March and April, involving Gujarati and other language-speaking community leaders from across India to promote Patel’s vision of a united nation.
On August 15, 2025, large-scale conventions will be held in 150 cities, highlighting India’s cultural diversity. These ‘Mini India’ events aim to showcase the nation’s rich heritage. A distinctive Raksha Sutra Bandhan event will also symbolise unity and brotherhood among citizens.
The Gujarat government has initiated cultural programmes to promote unity, including the successful ‘Saurashtra-Tamil Sangam’ event in Somnath, celebrating the historical connection between Saurashtrian Tamils and Gujarat.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Saurashtra University has conducted research on Saurashtrian Tamils who migrated to Tamil Nadu during the late Middle Ages. These communities have contributed significantly in cities like Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, and Salem.
The celebrations will span various regions across India, covering 46 cities in North India, 33 in South India, 24 in Central India, 27 in West India, and 20 in East India.
Vinay Patraale, founder president of Bharat-Bharati, stated that the extensive plan reflects the organisation’s goal of promoting unity and celebrating India’s cultural richness.
For over two decades, Bharat-Bharati has worked to unite citizens of diverse backgrounds, strengthening social harmony. The 150th birth anniversary celebrations will continue this mission, commemorating Patel’s contribution to India’s unity.
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