### Celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: A National Tribute on His 150th Birth Anniversary On October 31, 2025, India commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a pivotal figure in the country's history known as the "Iron Man of India." This day, also recognized as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), was marked by various events across the nation, emphasizing Patel's legacy of unity and nation-building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations, administering an "oath of unity" to participants and paying floral tributes at the Statue of Unity, a monument dedicated to Patel's contributions. The day also featured nationwide "Run for Unity" events, symbolizing the collective spirit of the nation in honoring Patel's vision for a united India. ### Structure of the Celebration and Key Events 1. **National Unity Day Observance** - Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was established to honor Patel's role in unifying India post-independence, celebrated annually on October 31 since 2014 [https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/india-news-j-k-run-for-unity-held-in-srinagar-to-celebrate-legacy-of-sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-7184163.html]. 2. **Prime Minister's Tribute** - PM Modi paid homage at the Statue of Unity, emphasizing Patel's vision of "one India, excellent India," and conveyed best wishes to the nation on this significant occasion [https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/ekta-diwas-should-be-celebrated-like-i-day-and-r-day-pm-modi-remembers-sardar-patels-legacy-releases-special-coin/4027354]. 3. **Floral Tributes and Oath of Unity** - The Prime Minister administered an oath of unity to participants, reinforcing the commitment to national integrity and unity [https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-floral-tribute-sardar-vallabhai-patel-statue-of-unity-on-his-150th-rashtriya-ekta-diwas-101761882071546.html]. 4. **Nationwide Participation** - Events like "Run for Unity" were organized in various states, including Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra, encouraging citizens from all walks of life to participate [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3679954-marathwadas-tribute-to-sardar-patel-run-for-unity-marks-national-unity-day]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Key Figures and Events:** - **150th Birth Anniversary**: Celebrated as a national holiday, with various events highlighting Patel's contributions [https://www.dnpindia.in/nation/national-unity-day-2025-how-india-is-remembering-sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-on-his-150th-anniversary/571510]. - **Floral Tributes**: President Droupadi Murmu and other leaders paid tributes, emphasizing Patel's legacy as a visionary leader [https://www.indianexpress.com/article/india/vallabhbhai-patel-birth-anniversary-national-unity-day-modi-congress-10337097]. - **Run for Unity Participation**: Events were held in multiple cities, showcasing widespread engagement from the public [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3679954-marathwadas-tribute-to-sardar-patel-run-for-unity-marks-national-unity-day]. ### Conclusion: A Unified Tribute to Sardar Patel The 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a significant event that brought together citizens across India to honor his legacy of unity and nation-building. The celebrations, led by Prime Minister Modi, included: 1. **Floral tributes at the Statue of Unity**. 2. **Nationwide participation in "Run for Unity" events**. 3. **An oath of unity administered to reinforce national integrity**. These activities not only commemorated Patel's contributions but also served as a reminder of the importance of unity in a diverse nation like India, echoing his vision for a strong and harmonious country [https://www.dnpindia.in/nation/sardar-patel-150-national-unity-day-2025-to-be-celebrated-with-fervour-check-how-his-vision-laid-the-foundations-of-modern-governance/571421].