Celebrating the Iron Man: PM Modi releases coin and postage stamp, celebrations begin at Statue of Unity

Ekta Nagar, Gujarat: As India marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, preparations are in full swing at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, for a grand celebration under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will not only observe National Unity Day but will also mark the beginning of Bharat Parv 2025, to be held from November 1 to 15 at the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue dedicated to Sardar Patel.

The celebration is being jointly organised by the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Tourism, Youth Services and Cultural Activities, Gujarat.

What is special about Bharat Parv 2025?

For the first time, Bharat Parv, an annual national festival that celebrates India’s cultural and artistic heritage, will be hosted outside Delhi, right at the foot of the Statue of Unity. The 15-day event aims to showcase India’s unity in diversity, in line with the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.

What are the highlights of the celebration?

Preparations at Ekta Nagar are designed to create a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. Every evening, the Dam View Point 1 and Valley of Flowers will feature cultural performances by paired states, highlighting their traditional music, dance, and art forms.

A special performance on November 15 will commemorate Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jayanti, honouring the great tribal leader.

Food lovers will have a feast to enjoy with 45 food stalls and a live studio kitchen set up near the Jungle Safari area. These will serve authentic cuisines from various states and union territories, giving visitors a flavourful journey through India’s regional specialities.

The festival will also feature 55 handicraft stalls displaying traditional and contemporary crafts from across India, including textiles, pottery, tribal art, and handmade artefacts. These stalls, located near the Jungle Safari, will offer visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship and creativity of India’s artisans.

Were any commemorative releases announced?

To mark Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a special commemorative coin and postage stamp in tribute to the Iron Man of India.

During his visit, the Prime Minister also met members of Sardar Patel’s family in Kevadia, recalling the great leader’s monumental contribution to nation-building and unity.

What does Bharat Parv 2025 stand for?

Bharat Parv 2025 will serve as a national celebration of India’s unity, culture, and strength, paying tribute to the man who united the nation and showcasing the living spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”