Iron Man’s Dream Lives On: India Marks Rashtriya Ekta Diwas with Grandeur & Pride
New Delhi: India gears up to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, on October 31, 2025, observed annually as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. This special edition of National Unity Day symbolizes India’s unity, integrity, and solidarity, paying tribute to Patel’s pivotal role in integrating 562 princely states into a united India.
The celebrations will kick off with a grand parade and cultural festival at Ekta Nagar, nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal ranges, reflecting the theme “Unity in Diversity.” Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and state police forces will showcase their skills, discipline, and valor, with contingents from BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and police forces from 10 states, including Assam, Maharashtra, and Jammu & Kashmir.
The parade will feature cavalry and camel-mounted contingents, with BSF’s camel contingent and Gujarat Police’s horse squad adding pomp. Indigenous dog breeds like Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds (including “Riya,” the competition winner) will demonstrate their operational prowess, embodying _Aatmanirbhar Bharat_. A female officer will lead the Guard of Honor, while CISF and CRPF women personnel will showcase martial arts, highlighting women power.
Five Shaurya Chakra awardees and 16 gallantry medal winners from CRPF and BSF will be honored for their bravery in anti-Naxal and counter-terror operations. The Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Team will thrill with a spectacular air display. Ten states and union territories, including Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, and Puducherry, will depict “Unity in Diversity” through tableaux, accompanied by brass bands from CAPFs and states.
Alongside the parade, a cultural program by the Ministry of Culture will feature 900 artists performing India’s classical dances, emphasizing national unity. From November 1 to 15, 2025, Ekta Nagar will host Bharat Parv, with cultural performances, a food festival, and programs celebrating God Birsa Munda Jayanti, highlighting tribal heritage.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas inspires citizens to embrace national unity, harmony, and patriotism—the core values Sardar Patel championed.
