Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Birth Anniversary: Powerful Quotes on Nationalism And Unity From India's 'Iron Man'

New Delhi, October 31: India celebrates the 144th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel today. Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel, popularly known as Sardar Patel, served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Union Home Minister of India. Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Patel was instrumental in uniting 562 princely states to build the Republic of India. A barrister by profession, he was a member of the Indian National Congress and fought British for freedom. On the 144th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, LatestLY compiles a list of his quotes on nationalism, faith, unity and struggle. Shivaji Statue to be Taller Than Sardar Patel's? Shiv Sena Tells Devendra Fadnavis 'Don't be Afraid of PM Modi, Amit Shah'.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: The negligence of a few could easily send a ship to the bottom, but if it has the wholehearted co-operation of all on board it can be safely brought to part.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: There is something unique in this soil, which despite many obstacles has always remained the abode of great souls.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: Every Indian should now forget that he is a Rajput, a Sikh or a Jat. He must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in his country but with certain duties.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: My only desire is that India should be a good producer and no one should be hungry, shedding tears for food in the country.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: Faith is of no evil in absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: Take to the path of dharma - the path of truth and justice. Don't misuse your valour. Remain united. March forward in all humility, but fully awake to the situation you face, demanding your rights and firmness.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: Little pools of water tend to become stagnant and useless, but if they are joined together to form a big lake the atmosphere is cooled and there is universal benefit.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: A war based on Satyagraha is always of two kinds. One is the war we wage against injustice, and the other we fight our won weaknesses.

Sardar Patel's Quote Reads: We have to shed mutual bickering, shed the difference of being high or low, develop a sense of equality and banish untouchability. We have to restore the conditions of Swaraj prevalent prior to British rule. We have to live like children of the same father.

The birth anniversary of Sardar Patel is also observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day. To commemorate his birthday, the government has organised a "Run for Unity" event, that encourages India to run together. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will flag off the "Run for Unity" in the national capital. The BJP has directed all its Members of Parliament to participate in the "Run For Unity" event.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 31, 2019 07:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).