Sardar Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel (October 31, 1875 – December 15, 1950), commonly called Sardar Patel, was a key figure in India’s independence and its unification.
Early Life and Education:
- Patel was born in Nadiad, Gujarat and his family were farmers.
- He studied law and later became a successful barrister. He went to England to study law and came back to India in 1913.
Role in the Independence Movement:
- Patel was strongly inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and joined the Indian National Congress.
- He worked to unite peasants in Gujarat against unfair British laws, especially during the Kheda and Bardoli Satyagrahas. He was given the title “Sardar,” which means leader, after leading the Bardoli Satyagraha in 1928.
He was a key participant in the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement and he was often imprisoned. - In 1931, Patel was elected President of the Indian National Congress.
Unification of India:
- After India became independent in 1947, Sardar Patel was appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
He is mainly recognized for leading the integration of more than 560 princely states into India after independence. By using diplomacy, persuasion and decisive decisions, he managed to bring India together which earned him the title “Iron Man of India.” - He was a key figure in forming the shape of modern India.
Other Contributions:
Patel played a major part in the Constituent Assembly and helped shape the Indian Constitution. He was the leader of key committees that dealt with fundamental rights, minorities and provincial constitutions.
- He is also known as the “Patron Saint of India’s Civil Servants” for introducing the modern all-India services system.
- He made efforts to keep peace and order at a time when the country was divided.
Death and Legacy:
- On December 15, 1950, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel died in Bombay (now Mumbai) following a heart attack.
In India, October 31st, the day of his birth, is observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day).
In 1991, the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India, was given to him after his death.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is honored by the Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world which stands in Gujarat.
Sardar Patel’s strong belief in national unity and his practical leadership helped unite India. Many still honor him for his powerful character, strong will and leadership in Indian history.
