By Dipak Kurmi
India observes Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day, every year on October 31st, a date etched in the nation’s collective memory as the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. Introduced by the Government of India in 2014, this observance transcends mere ceremonial commemoration; it represents a profound reaffirmation of the nation’s commitment to unity, integrity, and the enduring strength that binds together one of the world’s most diverse democracies. The day serves as a powerful reminder of how a vision, combined with unwavering determination, can forge a unified nation from hundreds of disparate entities.
The genesis of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas lies in recognizing the monumental contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to India’s political integration. When India gained independence in 1947, the subcontinent was a patchwork of British-controlled territories and 562 princely states, each with varying degrees of autonomy and allegiance. The daunting task of convincing these princely states to accede to the Indian Union fell largely upon Patel’s capable shoulders. Through a masterful combination of diplomatic finesse, pragmatic negotiation, and when necessary, firm resolve, Patel orchestrated what historians consider one of the most remarkable feats of nation-building in modern history. His efforts prevented the Balkanization of the Indian subcontinent and laid the foundation for the geographically contiguous and politically unified India we know today.
The official statement from the Home Ministry of India articulates the deeper purpose behind National Unity Day: it provides an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of the nation to withstand actual and potential threats to its unity, integrity, and security. This is not merely retrospective appreciation but a forward-looking commitment to preserving what Patel helped create. In an era marked by various divisive forces, both internal and external, the day assumes particular significance as a rallying point for national solidarity.
Central to the observance is a solemn pledge recited across government offices throughout the country. This pledge encapsulates the spirit of the day: “I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserving the unity, integrity, and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of the unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure the internal security of my country.” These words transform the observance from a passive remembrance into an active commitment, obligating each citizen to become a guardian of national unity.
The 2025 celebration marks a particularly momentous milestone—the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. This sesquicentennial commemoration has been envisioned on an unprecedented scale, transforming the annual observance into an unforgettable national event. The epicenter of these celebrations is Ekta Nagar in Gujarat’s Narmada district, a location that itself embodies the concept of “Unity in Diversity.” Nestled between the majestic Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, Ekta Nagar seamlessly blends natural grandeur with cultural richness, providing an apt backdrop for honoring the architect of India’s unity.
The centerpiece of this year’s celebrations is a grand parade and cultural festival that showcases the nation’s military prowess, cultural diversity, and collective spirit. The parade features contingents from India’s Central Armed Police Forces, including the Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and Sashastra Seema Bal. These forces, which stand as sentinels guarding India’s borders and internal security, demonstrate their skills, discipline, and valor in a spectacular display of synchronized precision. Complementing these central forces are contingents from state police forces representing Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh, along with the National Cadet Corps.
What distinguishes this year’s parade is its celebration of India’s indigenous heritage and growing self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The BSF’s marching contingent featuring exclusively Indian dog breeds represents a significant stride in this direction. The Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds, demonstrating their exceptional skills, have proven themselves as invaluable force multipliers during BSF operations. The Mudhol Hound named “Riya,” which recently secured first place at the All India Police Dog Competition, will lead the canine squad—a moment of pride celebrating indigenous breeds’ capabilities. Additionally, the Gujarat Police’s Horse Contingent, Assam Police’s Motorcycle Daredevil Show, and BSF’s Camel Contingent and Camel Mounted Band promise to captivate audiences with their unique displays.
The parade also powerfully highlights women’s increasing participation in India’s security apparatus. The Guard of Honor presented to the Prime Minister will be led by a female officer, while women personnel from CISF and CRPF will demonstrate martial arts and unarmed combat drills. These displays showcase not just technical proficiency but represent the evolving face of India’s security forces, where the nation’s daughters stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts, embodying strength, courage, and capability.
Bravery and sacrifice receive their due recognition as this year’s parade features five Shaurya Chakra awardees from CRPF and sixteen gallantry medal winners from BSF. These exceptional individuals demonstrated extraordinary courage during anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand and counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir. BSF personnel who showcased unmatched valor during Operation Sindoor on the western border will also participate, reminding the nation of the price of peace and security.
The theme “Unity in Diversity” finds vivid expression through ten tableaux from the National Security Guard, NDRF, and states including Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Manipur, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Puducherry. These mobile exhibitions showcase the unique cultural identities, traditions, and contributions of different regions while emphasizing their collective commitment to national unity. The musical accompaniment, provided by brass bands from BSF, CRPF, CISF, SSB, Delhi Police, and states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Jammu and Kashmir, creates a symphony representing India’s harmonious diversity.
The spectacle reaches new heights with a breathtaking air show by the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Team, painting the sky with trails of courage and precision. Young NCC cadets, through their disciplined performances and eye-catching displays, convey the timeless message that “Unity is Strength,” while school bands add youthful energy and enthusiasm to the proceedings.
Complementing the martial displays, a cultural program organized by the Ministry of Culture brings together 900 artists performing various classical dance forms of India. This magnificent showcase highlights the nation’s rich artistic heritage and demonstrates how cultural diversity strengthens rather than fragments national identity. Each performance tells a story of regional uniqueness while contributing to the larger narrative of Indian civilization.
The celebrations extend beyond a single day. From November 1 to 15, 2025, Ekta Nagar transforms into a festival ground hosting Bharat Parv, featuring cultural performances and a food festival representing different states. This extended celebration allows citizens to immerse themselves in the nation’s diversity, experiencing firsthand the customs, cuisines, and cultural expressions that define various regions. The festival culminates on November 15 with special programs celebrating God Birsa Munda Jayanti, honoring the tribal freedom fighter and recognizing the glorious culture and resilient spirit of India’s tribal communities.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas ultimately serves as both mirror and compass—reflecting on past achievements while pointing toward future responsibilities. Sardar Patel’s legacy reminds us that unity is not imposed uniformity but celebrated diversity bound by common purpose and mutual respect. As India navigates contemporary challenges, the values embodied by the Iron Man—pragmatism, inclusivity, determination, and unwavering commitment to national interest—remain eternally relevant. The day calls upon every citizen to actively participate in safeguarding and strengthening the unity that Patel helped forge, ensuring that the nation continues to stand strong, resilient, and united against all threats to its integrity and security.
(the writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
