ADV AARYAN SHARMA
Every great nation is built not merely by its history, but by the ideals that continue to bind its people together. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, observed every year on October 31, is one such moment of reflection and renewal for India. It marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, whose unwavering vision and resolute leadership laid the very foundations of our unity.
At a time when the newly independent nation faced uncertainty and fragmentation, Patel emerged as the steady hand that held the dream of India together. His life reminds us that unity is not a given-it is an achievement, born of courage, conviction, and compassion.
The Visionary Who Bound a Nation
When India gained independence in 1947, it stood divided-not by will, but by circumstance. Over 560 princely states dotted the subcontinent, each possessing distinct rulers, loyalties, and identities. The task of integrating these fragments into a single nation was monumental, even perilous.
Sardar Patel approached it with clarity and purpose. Through diplomacy, persuasion, and, when necessary, firmness, he brought together these scattered pieces of land and spirit under one flag. The unification of regions like Hyderabad, Junagadh, and Jammu & Kashmir was not just an administrative feat-it was a defining moment in India’s civilizational journey.
Patel’s vision was rooted in faith-faith in the people, in shared destiny, and in the idea that a nation’s strength lies in its unity. He once said, “Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly.” His leadership turned that philosophy into reality.
The Meaning of Ekta Diwas
In 2014, the Government of India dedicated October 31 as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to celebrate Sardar Patel’s enduring contribution to the nation. The purpose was not only to honor his memory but to remind citizens that India’s unity is its greatest inheritance and its greatest responsibility.
Across the country, people participate in Run for Unity events, pledge ceremonies, cultural programs, and exhibitions celebrating the theme of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat-One India, Great India. The grand observance at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat-the world’s tallest statue-serves as a towering reminder of Patel’s vision, symbolizing the collective strength and determination of the nation.
Unity as a Living Ideal
Sardar Patel’s wisdom was timeless. His idea of unity was not limited to the merging of territories; it was about harmonizing hearts and minds. He believed that the true strength of India lies in its ability to embrace diversity and draw strength from it.
In his words, “Take to the path of Dharma-the path of truth and justice-for that is the correct path for all.” These values remain central to the nation’s journey. In a world where divisions of language, faith, or ideology often overshadow shared humanity, Patel’s message shines like a guiding star-urging us to look beyond differences and uphold fairness, empathy, and mutual respect.
Relevance in Contemporary India
Today’s India stands as one of the world’s largest democracies-vibrant, diverse, and dynamic. Yet, it also faces challenges of polarization, regional disparity, and social tension. It is in such times that the spirit of EktaDiwas gains renewed relevance.
Celebrations in schools, colleges, and institutions go beyond rituals; they serve as reminders that unity requires effort and awareness. Every oath taken, every run for unity organized, every discussion on national integrity adds a small thread to the vast fabric of togetherness that Sardar Patel once envisioned.
The Statue of Unity, standing tall on the banks of the Narmada River, is more than a monument of stone and steel-it is a mirror reflecting the strength of a united people and the unbroken promise of India’s democracy.
The Enduring Legacy
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy is not confined to the pages of history; it continues to live in the collective conscience of India. His life reminds us that leadership is not about authority-it is about responsibility. His nationalism was inclusive, his patriotism compassionate, and his vision boundless.
He dreamt of an India where no one would go hungry, where every citizen could live with dignity, and where unity would not be imposed, but felt from within. “Work is worship, and labor is divine,” he said, reminding generations that progress comes through effort, not entitlement.
Ekta Diwas invites us all to carry that legacy forward-to work for harmony, to celebrate diversity, and to protect the spirit of togetherness that defines India’s soul.
As India celebrates Rashtriya Ekta Diwas each year, we do more than remember Sardar Patel-we revive his message. In every child who learns about unity, in every citizen who upholds peace, and in every heart that beats for the nation, Patel’s dream continues to live.
Unity is not a mere word; it is a living force that sustains our democracy, strengthens our diversity, and propels our collective progress. On this day and beyond, let us pledge to preserve that unity-to honor not just the Iron Man of India, but the enduring spirit of an unbreakable nation.
(The author is professional lawyer undergoing LLM at JIndal Global Law School)