Every year, Rashtriya Ekta Diwas reminds people across India how unity keeps us strong. On Friday, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India honours the man who brought more than 560 states together after Independence. This year is particularly significant as it marks Sardar Patel’s 150th birthday, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended an invitation to everyone to participate in the “Run for Unity,” urging us to demonstrate our strength by uniting in diversity. The message is clear: India does best when all its people stand united.
Before Independence, India was many small states. Sardar Patel’s hard work and smart decisions united them into one country. His actions stopped the nation from being broken apart and helped India prepare for a future as a strong democracy. He put systems like the All-India Services in place, which still help keep the nation together, safe, and fair. Because of Patel, India started its journey as one family with many cultures and languages.
On 15 December 1950, the Iron Man of India breathed his last. But not before he successfully brought together 565 princely states into the Union of India, a task no one thought possible at the time. This achievement, done in a brief span, is unmatched in world history and is the foundation of a united and modern India today.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is full of events that bring people together, from ministers to students, city dwellers to villagers. Activities like Run for Unity marathons and the big Unity March involve people of all ages and backgrounds. Special parades show off Indian dog breeds like Rampur and Mudhol Hounds, celebrating local pride and teamwork. These events remind everyone that unity is in everyday actions, not just history books.
To keep Patel’s legacy alive, the government launched “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” This program connects people from different states, encouraging them to learn each other’s languages, share meals, and understand one another’s traditions. School clubs, travel programs, festivals, and online activities make sure this spirit of unity continues all year, not just on one day. It helps children and youth make new friends and feel proud of their diverse country.
This year’s Unity March is bigger than ever. It happens in two parts: local padyatras in every district with activities like tree planting, plays, cleaning lakes, and health camps; and a long national march from Sardar Patel’s birthplace to the Statue of Unity. Both teach the importance of teamwork, cleanliness, and caring for the country. Young people lead these marches, showing that unity is not just for elders; it is for everyone who dreams of a better India.
Digital platforms and competitions, like quizzes and essay contests, also play a big role. They let people join Unity events from anywhere and help spread the message quickly. The EBSB portal collects stories, photos, and reports to show how India celebrates unity in every region. From tourism to sports, everything gets a place in this growing collection. It keeps people motivated and shows the success of unity efforts all year.
Why does all this matter? Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is more than a memory. It is India’s way of stopping any force that tries to split the country. By celebrating Unity Day through marches, pledges, cultural events, and more, the country ensures its people stick together even when challenges come. Patel’s lessons guide modern India towards peace, progress, and strong national bonds.
By mixing old memories with new activities, Rashtriya Ekta Diwas teaches each generation the value of unity. When India stands together, respecting differences and working for common goals, it grows stronger. Every such event builds trust and hope, turning Sardar Patel’s dream of a united India into reality, even today, for every person, everywhere.