Run for Unity: India Celebrates the 'Iron Man' on 151st Birth Anniversary
Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma and leaders across India flag off the 'Run for Unity' to celebrate National Unity Day and Sardar Patel's legacy.
Across the length and breadth of the country, thousands of citizens joined hands and hit the streets on Saturday for the Run for Unity. The nationwide event was organised to commemorate Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), marking the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the visionary leader known as the "Iron Man of India."
Rajasthan CM Leads the Charge in Jaipur
In Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma flagged off the run in Jaipur, describing the event as a fitting tribute to the architect of India's unity and integrity. Addressing the gathering, CM Sharma emphasized that the run was more than just a physical activity; it was a symbol of the nation's commitment to self-respect and integrity—ideals that Sardar Patel championed throughout his life.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the PM had recently encouraged citizens in an episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' to participate in the event with enthusiasm. Rajasthan BJP president Madan Rathore, who also joined the run, reflected on Patel's monumental task of integrating various princely states to create a structured India. Rathore added that Patel's vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) is currently being pursued through the efforts of the present administration.
Celebrations Span the Nation
The spirit of National Unity Day resonated far beyond Rajasthan, with high-profile events taking place in the capital and various states:
- New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off the 'Run for Unity' at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, leading the celebrations in the national capital.
- Tripura: Chief Minister Manik Saha flagged off the run in Agartala. He recalled that the tradition of observing this day began in 2014 and stressed that Patel's vision of harmony is especially relevant today in the face of external forces attempting to undermine India's integrity.
- Chandigarh: Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria spoke at the 'Ekta Yatra'. While praising Patel's individual efforts in uniting the nation, Kataria used the platform to deliver a strong message to the youth, urging them to stay away from drug abuse for a better future.
- Manipur: In Churachandpur, the district administration organised a specialized "National Unity Run for Peace" as part of the day's observances.
The Legacy of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas
National Unity Day has been observed every year on October 31 since 2014. The day is dedicated to honoring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's unparalleled contribution to the political integration of India and his pivotal role in nation-building.
From the streets of Jaipur to the stadiums of Delhi, the 'Run for Unity' served as a reminder of the historic achievement of merging fragmented states into a single, sovereign entity, inspiring a new generation to uphold the values of unity and progress.