Ahmedabad, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Statue of Unity in Gujarat is preparing for a momentous occasion to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of the 'Iron Man of India', Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, alongside Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31.

This event is a reflection of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of “Rajya anek, rashtra ek; samaj anek, Bharat ek; bhasha anek, bhaav ek; rang anek, tiranga ek” (many states, one nation; many communities, one India; many languages, one emotion; many colors, one Tricolour).

Under the theme 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', the celebration will feature a magnificent parade at Ekta Nagar—inspired by the Republic Day parade in New Delhi—showcasing India's rich cultural, social, and regional diversity.

The parade will consist of 16 contingents from CAPFs and state police forces including BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and various state units.

Honored participants will include medal-winning personnel like the BSF’s 'Operation Sindoor' heroes and CRPF’s gallantry awardees.

Adding to the festivities, ten thematic tableaux from various states and union territories—like Jammu & Kashmir, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Manipur, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand—will exhibit India's remarkable achievements and heritage.

The event will also feature nine military and police bands, four award-winning school bands, and thrilling displays such as the NSG’s Hell March, Assam Police’s Daredevil Motorcycle Show, and a dog show by the BSF’s Indian breeds.

Before the parade, the Prime Minister will pay floral tributes at the Statue of Unity and will receive a Guard of Honour from the CAPF and Gujarat Police contingents. Furthermore, a 15-day cultural festival—Bharat Parv 2025—will take place from November 1 to 15, celebrating India’s unity in diversity.

Visitors can indulge in over 45 food stalls offering traditional cuisines, 55 handicraft and handloom stalls, live kitchen demonstrations, and cultural performances from 28 states and 8 union territories. The festival will conclude with a Cyclothon on November 17, featuring over 5,000 cyclists from across India.

A standout aspect of the celebrations will be the 'Ekta Prakash Parv', which will illuminate Ekta Nagar nightly from 7 to 11 p.m., transforming the Valley of Flowers into 13 themed light zones adorned with artistic installations and selfie points.

The event will also honor Birsa Munda, the esteemed tribal leader, on his 150th birth anniversary on November 15 with a special performance.

Moreover, the National School of Drama will present 'Lohpurush', a dramatic interpretation of Sardar Patel’s life and contributions.

Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and DGP Vikas Sahay have indicated that final preparations are in full swing, coordinated by both the Centre and the Gujarat government.