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Gujarat's Unity March: How Sardar Patel's Legacy Inspires a New Generation

Gujarat has launched a national unity march to honor Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary. The 152-kilometer padyatra will travel from Patel's birthplace in Karamsad to Kevadia over ten days. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel described the march as a "pathway of patriotism" that aims to inspire youth. The event features cultural programs and storytelling sessions about Patel's life and values.

Key Points: National Unity March Launched in Gujarat for Sardar Patel Anniversary

  • 152-km march from Karamsad to Kevadia spans November 26 to December 5
  • Cultural programs and Sardar Gaatha sessions to share Patel's values
  • Event coincides with Constitution Day and 150 years of Vande Mataram
  • March organized simultaneously across all Indian states with youth participation
3 min read

National Unity March launched in Gujarat to mark Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary

Gujarat launches Sardar@Unity March from Karamsad to Kevadia, celebrating Patel's 150th birth anniversary with youth participation and cultural programs promoting national integration.

"The padyatra is not just a symbolic walk, but a pathway of patriotism that will echo messages of unity across Gujarat. - Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel"

Ahmedabad, Nov 26

Gujarat witnessed the launch of a national-level 'Sardar@Unity March' from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birthplace, Karamsad, as part of the nationwide celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India.

The padyatra, which will travel from Karamsad to Kevadia between November 26 and December 5, aims to spread Patel's message of national unity and inspire patriotism among the country's youth.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel flagged off the march, attended by BJP Gujarat president Jagdish Vishwakarma, several ministers, MPs, MLAs, and youth from across India.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha delivered a special address, describing the Unity March as a tribute to independent India's foundation of unity and to Patel’s unparalleled contribution to the nation.

Speaking on Constitution Day, Chief Minister Patel paid homage to Dr B. R. Ambedkar and the members of the Constitution-drafting committee.

He noted that the celebrations coincide with Patel's 150th birth anniversary and with the national festivities around the 150 years of Vande Mataram and the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.

Addressing the gathering, CM Patel said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been steadfast in fulfilling Patel's vision of an integrated and self-reliant India. He recalled how Patel unified 562 princely states to shape a united nation, calling the Statue of Unity the world's tallest statue and a "living symbol of India's strength and pride".

Patel added that under PM Modi's leadership, the abrogation of Article 370 achieved the long-standing goal of complete national integration.

He further noted that Patel's commitment to workers and farmers is reflected in the implementation of India's four new labour codes.

The 152-km march is not just a symbolic walk, Patel said, but a “pathway of patriotism” that will echo messages of unity across Gujarat. He highlighted that the padyatra is being organised simultaneously in all states, with massive youth participation.

During the march, various cultural programmes, public gatherings and storytelling sessions titled 'Sardar Gaatha' will be held to acquaint people with Patel's values and life lessons.

Gujarat BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma, addressing the crowd with a rousing 'Jay Sardar', emphasised that Constitution Day holds special significance in India's democratic journey.

He described it as a moment of pride that the nation is simultaneously celebrating 150 years of Sardar Patel, Birsa Munda, and Vande Mataram.

He urged citizens, especially youth, to commit themselves to PM Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by adopting swadeshi products in everyday life.

Vishwakarma added that PM Modi has elevated India’s global stature and strengthened the respect for Indian citizens worldwide.

He said Patel’s name alone energises the youth, describing him as a leader of iron will and unmatched resolve.

The event saw participation from Tripura CM Manik Saha, BJP National General Secretary Sunil Bansal, Union Ministers Anupriya Patel and Nimuben Bambhaniya, senior BJP functionaries, state ministers, MPs, MLAs and thousands of youth from different regions.

janvi/svn

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish such events focused more on Patel's actual contributions rather than making it political. The Iron Man deserves better than being used as a political symbol.
A
Arjun K
Jay Sardar! 🇮🇳 The integration of 562 princely states was no small feat. Today's youth should learn about his administrative genius and dedication to national unity. The padyatra is a great way to spread awareness.
S
Sarah B
As someone visiting India, I'm impressed by how much respect Sardar Patel commands. The Statue of Unity is breathtaking! It's wonderful to see historical figures being celebrated with such enthusiasm.
V
Vikram M
The timing with Constitution Day is perfect. Both Sardar Patel and Dr. Ambedkar worked tirelessly for our nation's unity and framework. We need more such initiatives that educate people about our freedom fighters' sacrifices.
K
Kavya N
The 'Sardar Gaatha' storytelling sessions sound wonderful! We need to pass on these stories to the next generation. My grandfather used to tell us stories about how Patel unified the country - truly inspiring!
M
Michael C
Impressive to see such large-scale events celebrating historical figures. The coordination across all states shows great organizational capability. Hope the message of unity reaches every corner of India

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