Thu Oct 31 10:32:33 UTC 2024: ## Modi Celebrates National Unity Day in Gujarat, Linking Diwali to Global Unity

**Kevadia, Gujarat:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi today commemorated ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) in Kevadia, Gujarat, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India.” The event, held near the iconic Statue of Unity dedicated to Patel, saw a grand parade, cultural performances, and the Prime Minister’s address.

Modi highlighted Patel’s instrumental role in unifying India by integrating hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union after independence. He also emphasized the significance of the day as a celebration of India’s diverse heritage and a commitment to national unity.

This year, the celebrations took on a special dimension as the Prime Minister linked the occasion with the festival of Diwali, currently celebrated globally. He remarked on how Diwali, now celebrated internationally, has become a symbol of India’s cultural reach and a testament to the country’s growing soft power.

“Deepawali connects India with the world,” Modi said, extending his Diwali greetings to Indians worldwide. “It is being celebrated as a national festival in several countries. I extend many best wishes of Deepawali to all the Indians living in the country and the world and the well-wishers of India.”

The Prime Minister’s participation in ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ underscores the government’s dedication to preserving Patel’s legacy and reinforcing the theme of unity in contemporary India. The day saw various cultural performances showcasing the country’s diverse traditions, further emphasizing the theme of unity in diversity.

The government has been actively promoting events and programs across the country to celebrate ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas,’ including the Unity Run, school and college programs, and cultural showcases, all aimed at fostering national solidarity.

With his message of unity, peace, and harmony, Modi concluded the celebrations in Kevadia, leaving a lasting impact on the nationwide observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and sending warm Diwali greetings to Indians globally.

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