This year marks the 147th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, widely referred to as the Iron Man of India.
The Statue of Unity
On October 31, 2018, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 143rd birthday, the Statue of Unity was inaugurated. The statue of Vallabhbhai Patel is the largest in the entire world. The statue stands 597 feet tall (182 meters). The statue is located at southeast of the city of Vadodara on the Narmada River opposite the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
The statue was constructed from October 2013 to October 2018, when it was finished, and on October 31, 2018, it was inaugurated.
National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2022: Significance
In order to maintain our nation's unity, integrity, and security, the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas presents an opportunity to recognize the inherent strength and resiliency of our people. The primary goal of the celebration is to strengthen national unity and raise awareness of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's importance in Indian history. Even an award is dedicated to Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to inspire the nation with the contributions made by individuals for the country.
The spectacular night view of the colossal monument of Shri Sardar Patel makes it an ideal vacation destination for one & all. Include the Statue of Unity in your travel bucket list to see this pride of the nation. #souindia pic.twitter.com/31w0U7oP8N
— Statue Of Unity (@souindia) October 15, 2022
National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2022: History
The Indian government established Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day, in 2014 to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the occasion of his birth anniversary for his remarkable efforts to keep India unified. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the "Run for Unity" initiative in New Delhi in 2014, which served as the inspiration for the first Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebration.
The Unity Run
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will lead the Unity Run today, October 31, 2022, in honor of National Unity Day at Delhi University.
The Unity Run, also known as "Run for Unity," is an annual celebration honoring Iron Man and former Indian Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Run for Unity is one of the main events planned for National Unity Day.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is a tribute to the invaluable role of Sardar Patel in unifying our nation. https://t.co/mk4k21xpme
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 31, 2022
Around 8,000 people are scheduled to take part in this year's Unity Run, which will start from the National Stadium in New Delhi.