New Delhi, Oct 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited the people to join the ‘Run for Unity’ on ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’, celebrated on October 31, to honour Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Join the Run for Unity on 31st October and celebrate the spirit of togetherness! Let’s honour Sardar Patel’s vision of a united India.”

This year, India will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

PM Modi also shared a post from Ekta Diwas Bharat, which called on the people to participate in the ‘Run for Unity’ in large numbers.

The post read, “Our diversity is India’s soul, and Sardar Patel wove it into unity. PM Modi carries this vision forward. Celebrate his 150th birth anniversary, join the Run for Unity and strengthen the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat!”

Earlier on Sunday, during his monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ PM Modi paid homage to Sardar Patel, known as the ‘Iron Man of India,’ for his dedication to the freedom struggle.

He said that India is indebted to Sardar Patel for his significant contributions as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.

“The 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel is a very special occasion for the entire country. Sardar Patel has been one of the greatest luminaries of the nation in modern times,” PM Modi said.

Highlighting Patel’s qualities encompassed in his “towering personality”, the Prime Minister said, “He was an exceptionally brilliant student. He excelled in his studies both in India and Britain. He was also one of the most successful lawyers of his time. He could have earned even more fame in the field of law, but, inspired by Gandhiji, he completely dedicated himself to the freedom movement.”

“His contributions to numerous movements, from the ‘Kheda Satyagraha’ to the ‘Borsad Satyagraha’, are still remembered today. His tenure as the head of the Ahmedabad Municipality was also historic. He accorded top priority to cleanliness and good governance. We will all forever be indebted to him for his contributions as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister,” PM Modi said.

He further mentioned that Sardar Patel also laid a strong foundation for India’s bureaucratic framework and made “unparalleled efforts for the unity and integrity” of the country.

Every year, India celebrates the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel with an event called ‘Run For Unity’. This event takes place in various locations across the country and brings together runners of all levels to promote fitness and honour the Iron Man of India.

“I urge all of you to participate in the Run For Unity being organised across the country on October 31, Sardar Saheb’s birth anniversary, and not just participate alone, but along with others. This should become an opportunity for youth awakening; this run for unity will strengthen unity. This will be our true tribute to that great luminary who united India,” he added.

–IANS

sd/dpb