CHENNAI – 1 Nov, 2026 I will say, “Sardar Patel,” and all of you respond, “Immortal forever, immortal forever.”
Sardar Patel – Immortal forever, immortal forever.
My dear countrymen,
Today’s event is somewhat different. Until now, we have always held this programme on Unity Day in the morning. This time, there has been a slight change. We have all gathered in the evening. In the morning, lakhs and lakhs of citizens participated in the Run for Unity with a pledge of national unity. We saw the enthusiasm of the people in the Run for Unity. Yesterday evening, I witnessed magnificent presentations at the Bharat Parv Pavilion. And now, on this national occasion, we are present at the feet of Sardar Patel.
Friends,
This is the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity. The participation of the entire nation in its construction, the unique aura of this place, and the extraordinary energy and inspiration of Unity Day fill one’s heart with pride and gratitude upon coming here. Pride in being a citizen of this great nation, and gratitude towards Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who united more than 550 princely states after Independence. With an iron resolve, he bound this nation together in the thread of unity.
Freedom is essential for any nation. When a nation is free, it determines its own future. But freedom receives the right direction through a republic. A republic shows us the path of taking decisions within the framework of the Constitution. The Constitution keeps us accountable to the people. And unity gives us the strength to move forward as one nation. That is why in our country, Independence Day, Republic Day, and Unity Day are all celebrated with great enthusiasm as national festivals.