The Statue of Unity in Gujarat is set to become the centre of national attention as it hosts the 150th birth anniversary celebration of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31. The event will reflect Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Rajya anek, rashtra ek; samaj anek, Bharat ek; bhasha anek, bhaav ek; rang anek, tiranga ek (many states, one nation; many communities, one India; many languages, one emotion; many colours, one Tricolour).”
Under the theme ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, the celebration will feature a grand moving parade at Ekta Nagar, modelled on the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, showcasing the country’s cultural, social, and regional diversity.
The parade will include 16 contingents from the CAPFs and state police forces, including the BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and various state units. Medal-winning personnel such as the BSF’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ heroes and CRPF gallantry awardees will also participate, highlighting the valour and service of India’s uniformed forces.
Adding to the splendour, ten thematic tableaux from states and union territories, including Jammu & Kashmir, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Manipur, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand, will celebrate India’s achievements and heritage. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands tableau will draw attention to the archipelago’s unique biodiversity, indigenous culture, and its growing importance as a model of sustainable development and national integration.
The parade will also feature nine military and police bands, four award-winning school bands, and thrilling displays such as the NSG’s Hell March, Assam Police’s Daredevil Motorcycle Show, and a dog show by the BSF featuring Indian breeds.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will offer floral tributes at the Statue of Unity before attending the parade, where he will receive a Guard of Honour by the CAPF and Gujarat Police contingents. Following the ceremony, the celebrations will extend into a 15-day cultural festival, Bharat Parv 2025, to be held from November 1 to 15, showcasing India’s unity in diversity through cuisine, crafts, and culture.
Visitors will be treated to more than 45 food stalls offering regional delicacies, 55 handicraft and handloom stalls, live studio kitchens, and cultural performances representing all 28 states and 8 union territories. The festival will culminate with a Cyclothon on November 17, where more than 5,000 cyclists from across India will participate, promoting fitness and national unity.
A major highlight will be the ‘Ekta Prakash Parv’, a nightly illumination event transforming Ekta Nagar and the Valley of Flowers into a radiant visual experience from 7 to 11 p.m. The area will feature 13 themed light zones, artistic installations, and selfie points designed to celebrate the spirit of oneness.
The celebrations will also honour Birsa Munda, the revered tribal leader, on his 150th birth anniversary on November 15 with a special cultural performance. Adding to the cultural richness, the National School of Drama will stage Lohpurush, a theatrical portrayal of Sardar Patel’s life and legacy, reflecting his monumental role in India’s unity and integration.
Gujarat’s Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and DGP Vikas Sahay confirmed that final preparations are underway, coordinated by both the Centre and the Gujarat government to ensure a seamless and historic national celebration.
