Ahmedabad, Oct 31 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity, commemorating his 150th birth anniversary with a heartfelt homage. The moment was made even more significant by the presence of the 'Iron Man of India’s family as the nation collectively honored this esteemed leader.

“India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was a pivotal force in the integration of India, shaping our nation’s future during its early years. His steadfast dedication to national unity, effective governance, and public service continues to motivate generations. We also renew our commitment to realize his vision of a united, robust, and self-sufficient India,” stated PM Modi.

The day, which is recognized as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), featured grand festivities at Ekta Nagar, including a ‘Unity Parade’, cultural displays, and tributes that underscored Sardar Patel’s crucial role in integrating 562 princely states into the Indian Union.

Notably, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that the Unity Parade will become an annual national celebration.

The celebrations were further enriched by the presence of several descendants of Sardar Patel. Notable attendees included his grandson Gautam Dahyabhai Patel (80) and his wife Dr. Nandita Gautam Patel (79), along with their son Kedar Gautam Patel (47), his wife Reena Patel (47), and their daughter Kareena Kedar Patel (13), who represent the fifth generation of Sardar Patel’s family. Also present were Sameer Indrakant Patel (68) and his wife Rita S. Patel (66).

Over the years, Ekta Nagar, home to the world’s tallest statue, has evolved from a tourist hotspot to a national emblem of unity and pride. The attendance of Sardar Patel’s family at this significant anniversary added a profound emotional layer to the event, according to officials.

In the lead-up to the anniversary on October 30, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and dedicated development projects worth Rs 1,220 crore in Ekta Nagar, covering tourism, sports, infrastructure, and sustainability sectors — aimed at transforming the region into a model of integrated development.

To celebrate this milestone, the Prime Minister also unveiled a Rs 150 commemorative coin alongside a special postal stamp, issued by the Reserve Bank of India and India Post, honoring Sardar Patel’s unmatched contributions to nation-building.

The nationwide festivities, which included a ‘Run for Unity’ and a 15-day ‘Bharat Parv’ displaying India’s tribal and cultural heritage, reinforced the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”—a living tribute to the man who unified modern India.