When India gained freedom on August 15, 1947, the subcontinent was an amalgamation of more than 560 princely states. Political freedom meant little without territorial unity. It was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the nation’s first Home Minister, who made this challenge his life’s mission.
Patel brought the nation together through negotiation, firmness and vision and in one stroke, the divided land became a single entity. For decades the Iron Man of India did not get the recognition his work truly deserved.
Modi’s Lasting Ties with Patel
Decades later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to revive and celebrate Patel’s legacy born in the same state as Patel, Modi grew up with inspiration from his ideals of discipline and national unity. During the Emergency, he worked closely with Patel’s daughter, Maniben, strengthening his admiration for the leader.
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Even as an RSS pracharak and later a politician, Modi often invoked Patel’s leadership urging citizens to adopt his example of nationalism rooted in service and unity.
Honouring the Iron Man in Concrete & Spirit
As Chief Minister of Gujarat, Modi converted Patel’s ideals into visible symbols. The Statue of Unity, conceived during his tenure and inaugurated in 2018 now stands 182 metres tall on the banks of the Narmada-a global tribute to India’s unifier.
The “Loha Campaign,” which collected iron tools from farmers across six lakh villages made the statue a people’s monument. Modi also rejuvenated the Sardar Patel National Memorial in Ahmedabad, so that Patel’s story continues to inspire generations.
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Reviving Patel’s unfinished dreams
The initiatives taken by Modi were not confined to mere memorials: He oversaw the completion of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, a project first envisioned by Patel to bring water and power to Gujarat. After decades of delays, the dam finally reached its full height in 2017, transforming Gujarat’s irrigation and energy landscape.
Equally, the restoration of the Somnath Temple, dear to Patel’s heart, became a model for the preservation of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Continuing Patel’s Vision in Modern India
Sardar Patel dreamed of a united and self-reliant India with an idea Modi continues to advance. The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 reflected Patel’s belief in complete national integration. Globally, PM Modi has elevated Patel’s recognition by inviting world leaders to the Statue of Unity. The Sardar Patel National Unity Award and the Women’s Reservation Bill echo Patel’s principles of equality, integrity and service.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on verified historical references and official records; interpretations reflect editorial analysis and factual accuracy.
