Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the colossal figure affectionately dubbed the "Iron Man of India," remains an enduring icon whose legacy of administrative genius and commitment to national unity will be celebrated during his 150th birth anniversary in October 2025. Born in Nadiad, Gujarat, to Jhaveribhai and Laadba. Patel initially trained as a respected barrister before dedicating his formidable will to the independence movement. As independent India’s first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, he earned his epithet by masterfully integrating the princely states, a pivotal act that decisively forged the modern nation. Patel demonstrated exceptional leadership skills even before independence by successfully leading the Kheda Satyagraha (1918) and the Bardoli Satyagraha (1928). He also established the modern All India Services (like the IAS), and undertaking the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. His passing on December 15, 1950, known as his Punya Tithi, remains a solemn day where leaders and Indians worldwide pay tribute to his vision and service, a legacy now honoured globally with initiatives like a life-size statue in Markham, Canada.
Today, India continues to honour the great leader, preserving his memory at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial and through cultural initiatives, including a forthcoming National School of Drama play on his life planned for cities across the country. Furthermore, in Canada, the statue unveiled at the Sanatan Mandir and culture centre provides a significant place for Darshan and prayer. The Publisher/Editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, C B Patel, visited the Sanatan Mandir when he went to Toronto to receive the Global Gujarati award a few years ago and had Darshan of all divine deities before being blessed by the priest.