National Unity Day 2020: 10 powerful quotes by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as Sardar Patel, played a key role in the Indian freedom movement. He united 562 princely states to build the Republic of India. 

A truly great social leader, his work was characterised by excellence. He has made his spot in the history of our nation and in our hearts for eternity. He played an instrumental role in India’s struggle for independence, is hailed even today for his contributions. 

On the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel on October 31, 2018, PM Modi unveiled the 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat's Narmada district. His birthday is observed as National Unity Day.

With a height of 182 meters, the Sardar Patel statue is 100 times larger than the average person. The total height of the Sardar Patel statue is double that of New York's Statue of Liberty. The world’s tallest statue has been completed in the shortest time.

On his birth anniversary, take a look at some of the powerful quotes by Sardar Patel:

1. "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."

2. "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."

3. "Non-violence has to be observed in thought, word and deed. The measure of our non-violence will be the measure of our success."

4. "A war based on Satyagraha is always of two kinds. One is the war we wage against injustice, and the other we fight our own weaknesses."

5. "Faith is of no avail in absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work."

6. "My only desire is that India should be a god producer and no one should be hungry, shedding tears for food in the country."

7. "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."

8. "Work is undoubtedly worship but laughter is life. Any one who takes life too seriously must prepare himself for a miserable existence. Anyone who greets joys and sorrows with equal facility can really get the best of life."

9. "There is something unique in this soil, which despite many obstacles has always remained the abode of great souls."

10. "Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly, then it becomes a spiritual power."