The Monumental Journey of the Statue of Unity: A Tribute to India's Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

The awe-inspiring Statue of Unity, completed on October 30, 2018, stands as a towering tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in India's freedom struggle and its first Home Minister. Located in the Narmada Valley in Kevadiya, this 182-meter bronze concrete and steel statue is a testament to Patel's immense contributions to the country.

History behind the Statue of Unity

The statue's construction was a grand declaration of respect and appreciation for Patel, often referred to as the 'Iron Man of India.' As Patel played a crucial role in uniting the 562 princely states to form the Republic of India, the statue serves as a reminder of his monumental efforts in forging a united India.

The Proposal and Construction

The idea for the Statue of Unity was first proposed by Narendra Modi, who was then Gujarat's Chief Minister, on October 7, 2013. To materialize this vision, a society called Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) was established under the supervision of Gujarat's Chief Minister. The society was tasked with overseeing the construction of the monument.

Symbolism and Historical Context

The statue's construction was not only a tribute to a historical figure, but also a strategic move by political leaders. From an economic and social development standpoint, the $450 million spent on the statue might seem excessive, with some questioning its utility. However, it served as a political narrative constructed by leaders like Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to argue that Sardar Patel's leadership would have led to a more developed India.

One of the key narratives promoted was that NaMo and BJP accused Pandit Nehru and Sardar Patel of having a contentious relationship, with the Congress working committee electing Sardar Patel as the first Prime Minister in favor of Gandhi's wishes. They even proposed a hypothetical scenario where Sardar Patel would have led India to a developed economy. The construction of the statue thus served to elevate Sardar Patel's legacy in the face of what they perceived as the Congress party undermining his role.

Given the BJP's absence of a national icon to champion their ultranationalist agenda, Sardar Patel was strategically chosen to become their symbol. The statue of Unity was built to not only honor Patel but also to reinforce BJP's ideological stance.

Conclusion

The Statue of Unity in Gujarat is more than just a monumental structure; it is a symbolic representation of India's struggle for independence and unity. Its construction has been a subject of both admiration and criticism, reflecting a broader discourse on political narratives and national identity.