When India gained freedom on August 15, 1947, the subcontinent was an amalgamation of more than 560 princely states. Political freedom meant little without territorial unity. It was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the nation’s first Home Minister, who made this challenge his life’s mission.

Patel brought the nation together through negotiation, firmness and vision and in one stroke, the divided land became a single entity. For decades the Iron Man of India did not get the recognition his work truly deserved.

Modi’s Lasting Ties with Patel

Decades later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to revive and celebrate Patel’s legacy born in the same state as Patel, Modi grew up with inspiration from his ideals of discipline and national unity. During the Emergency, he worked closely with Patel’s da

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