Celebrating India’s Unity in Diversity: National Unity Day

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National-Unity-Day-of-India

Introduction

In 1947, after the Independence, many had the perspective that India will go to ruins and will disintegrate due to its diversification in culture and ethnicity. But what everyone did not know was, this diversity would become the strength of India. Today, India is known for being a state with culture and heritage differing in every region and is praised for having such a strong unity despite these contrasts. On 31st of October, we celebrate this beautiful tapestry of differences, named as National Unity Day

But one might wonder, why the 31st of October? In 2014, The government of India declared 31st of October as National Unity Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Let’s dive further into the topic to know how unity of India is linked with the Iron Man of India.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Contribution in Indian Unity

Sardar-Vallabhbhai-Patel’s-Contribution-in-Indian-Unity

The veteran freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel contributed heavily with his participation in non-cooperation, Satyagraha, and Quit India movement where he also inspired a lot of Indias to participate in the movements and helped India achieve independence. But he also played an indispensable role in shaping the newly independent nation into a united and cohesive entity. After India gained independence in 1947, the country faced the daunting challenge of integrating over 560 princely states, each with varying degrees of autonomy and allegiance. Without a unified approach, these states could have fragmented the nation, leading to disunity, chaos, or even civil war. He believed that the integration of states had to be voluntary to ensure long-term stability.

As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, he worked tirelessly to bring these states into the fold of the Indian Union. He employed a combination of diplomacy, persuasion, and, where necessary, political pressure to achieve this goal. His ability to negotiate with the princely rulers while appealing to their sense of patriotism was key to the success of this monumental task. Many rulers, including those of large states like Hyderabad, Junagadh, and Jodhpur, were initially hesitant or outright resistant to joining the Indian Union. With his diplomatic acumen, successfully convinced most rulers to accede to India by explaining the benefits of being part of a unified nation. He also offered them personal guarantees, safeguarding their titles and privileges through the Privy Purse.

Even in challenging states like Hyderabad and Junagadh, Sardar Patel was able to annex Hyderabad with operation Polo and Junagadh acceded due to his decisive leadership and strategic moves. 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Life

Sardar-Vallabhbhai-Patel-Life

Born on 31st of October 1875 in Nadiad, Kheda district, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel became one of the key leaders of India’s independence movement with his influential leadership in the Bardoli Satyagraha and his efforts in post-independent India. He studied law in England and became a barrister before joining the freedom movement in India. He was one of the senior leaders of the Indian National Congress. He also played a key role in the Quit India Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. The title ‘Sardar’ meaning chief in Hindi, was given to him by Mahatma Gandhi for his exceptional organisational skills during the Bardoli Satyagraha. He was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs of India. 

To revere him and his contribution to India, he was awarded with the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1991. And in 2018 on 31st October, the Statue of Unity was inaugurated. It stands still as the tallest statue in the world, at 182 metres. Located in Kevadia, Gujarat, it has become a symbol of national pride and unity paying tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. 

National Unity Day Celebrations

National Unity Day Celebrations

National Unity Day Celebrations are held across India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and to honor his contributions to national integration. The day is marked by a wide range of events, both at the governmental and public levels. The central highlight is the “Run for Unity”, a nationwide marathon organized in cities and towns across India, symbolizing the collective effort toward fostering unity among citizens. Government offices, educational institutions, and various organizations participate in the run, encouraging people from all walks of life to join and reflect on the importance of unity. Additionally, government buildings are illuminated, and tributes are paid to Sardar Patel through speeches, documentaries, and exhibitions detailing his life and work.

Many states also organize ceremonial parades, oath-taking ceremonies, and events promoting national integration. Political leaders, including the Prime Minister, address the nation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity and harmony in the face of challenges such as regionalism, communalism, and external threats. National Unity Day serves as a reminder of the values of “unity in diversity”, with the goal of reinforcing the idea that the strength of India lies in its ability to stand united despite its cultural and linguistic diversity. The celebrations not only honor Sardar Patel’s legacy but also inspire future generations to contribute to the continued progress and unity of the nation.

Importance of Unity Day

Importance of Unity Day

In a country as vast and diverse as India, unity is crucial for its stability, progress, and growth. National Unity Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the relevance of national unity in contemporary times when the country faces issues like communalism, regionalism, and separatist movements. By remembering Patel’s legacy, citizens are reminded that the very foundation of the nation’s sovereignty is based on inclusiveness and collective strength. 

The day encourages individuals to rise above divisions and work towards social harmony and political integrity, ensuring that national interests take precedence over personal or regional aspirations. And with increasing Communalism, and division on the basis of regions, this concept and celebration becomes even more crucial. It aims to foster a sense of patriotism and encourages citizens to contribute to the nation’s unity in a constructive manner. In schools and colleges, the day becomes a platform to educate the younger generation about the importance of staying united, respecting diversity, and embracing the values of tolerance and cooperation.

Quotes from Sardar Patel

Quotes-from-Sardar-Patel

Remembering the man without whose contribution, India would not stand as one on national and international platforms as it does today. Sardar Patel always believed in harmony among the diversities and visioned it as a collective goal. He has strong belief in unity, equality, and the spirit of nation-building, laying the foundation for a united and prosperous India which are reflected in his quotes. 

  1. Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly, then it becomes a spiritual power.”
  2. “There is something unique in this soil, which despite many obstacles has always remained the abode of great souls.”
  3. “Every Indian should now forget that he is a Rajput, a Sikh, or a Jat. He must remember that he is an Indian.”
  4. “Take to the path of dharma – the path of truth and justice. Don’t misuse your nation’s freedom.”
  5. “The first duty of a citizen is to maintain the unity of the nation.”
  6. “We have to shed mutual bickering, shed the difference of being high or low, develop the sense of equality, and banish untouchability. We have to live like the children of the same father.”
  7. “It is in my nature to be a friend of the friendless and an enemy of oppressors.”
  8. “Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work.”
  9. “Our object should be peace within, and peace without. We want to live in peace with our neighbors and with the world. But it is not possible unless our own homes are in order.”
  10. “Work is undoubtedly worship, but laughter is life. Anyone who takes life too seriously must prepare for a miserable existence.”

FAQs About National Unity Day

Why is National Unity Day celebrated?

National Unity Day, celebrated on 31st of October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. 

Who introduced the National Unity Day first?

The National Unity Day was first introduced by the government of India in 2014.

What is the name of Unity Day?

The other name for Unity Day is Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

Why is Sardar Patel called Iron Man?

Sardar Patel is known as Iron Man of India for his undying and unfaltering commitment to national integration in the newly independent India. 

What is Sardar Patel famous for?

Sardar Patel is revered in Indian history for not only his fight for freedom but his successful persuasion of almost 565 self-governing princely states integration in the independent India. 

Few Lines on National Unity Day

  1. National Unity Day, observed on October 31st, honours Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s efforts in uniting India post-independence.
  2. Also known as the “Iron Man of India,” he played a pivotal role in integrating over 500 princely states into the Indian Union.
  3. The day celebrates India’s unity in diversity, emphasizing the importance of cohesion amidst cultural and linguistic differences.
  4. Events like the Run for Unity and public programs inspire patriotism and promote national integration.
  5. National Unity Day highlights the ongoing need for harmony in India’s social, political, and economic spheres.
  6. The celebrations reflect the spirit of togetherness, urging citizens to overcome communalism and regionalism.
  7. By fostering national pride, the day encourages all Indians to uphold values of unity for the nation’s progress.

Conclusion

Ultimately, National Unity Day is not just a tribute to Sardar Patel but also a call to action for every Indian to commit to preserving the territorial and cultural unity of the country, ensuring India’s progress and peace. It stands as a powerful reminder of the crucial role unity plays in the progress and stability of India. By commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s monumental efforts in integrating the nation, the day not only honors his legacy but also reinforces the timeless value of “unity in diversity” in modern India. It encourages citizens to reflect on their responsibility in fostering national integration, promoting social harmony, and overcoming divisions. As India continues to grow and face new challenges, the message of National Unity Day serves as a call to action for every citizen to uphold the principles of tolerance, inclusiveness, and collective strength, ensuring the nation’s continued success and peaceful coexistence.

Vestor Courtesy: Vecteezy.com

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