Patel, also called the iron man of India, was born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad District Kheda and was brought up in the countryside of Gujarat. He was one of the most prominent voices in the freedom struggle supporting non-violent civil disobedience against the British Raj and then the Quit India movement.
As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India, Sardar Patel had organised relief work for refugees fleeing to Punjab and Delhi from Pakistan and worked to bring peace in the turbulent time of partition. He had also led the task of ensuring a united India by successfully integrating states into the newly independent nation especially with respect to the British colonial provinces. Hence, he is also remembered as the 'Unifier of India'.
On this special day, we honour the memory of the legendary leader with his 10 inspirational quotes:
- Every Indian should now forget that he is a Rajput, a Sikh or a Jat. He must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in his country but with certain duties.
- Non-violence has to be observed in thought, word and deed. The measure of our non-violence will be the measure of our success.
- Two ways of building character - cultivating the strength to challenge oppression, and tolerate the resultant hardships that give rise to courage and awareness.
- Take to the path of dharma - the path of truth and justice. Don't misuse your valour. Remain united. March forward in all humility, but fully awake to the situation you face, demanding your rights and firmness.
- Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly, then it becomes a spiritual power,
- Faith is of no evil in absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work.
- There is something unique in this soil, which despite many obstacles has always remained the abode of great souls.
- The stiffer the opponent the more should our affection go out to him. That is the significance of Satyagraha.
- The negligence of a few could easily send a ship to the bottom, but if it has the wholehearted co-operation of all on board it can be safely brought to the part.
- Happiness and misery are paper balls. Don’t be afraid of death. Join the nationalist forces, be united. Give work to those who are hungry, food to invalids, forget your quarrels.
Today, President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Sardar Patel. A seaplane service will also be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi on a journey from Sabarmati riverfront to Kevadia.