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Celebration National Unity Day at the Consulate General of India, Chicago

Posted on: October 30, 2022 | Back | Print

The Consulate organised a function today at its premises to commemorate the Rashtriya Ekta Divas (National Unity Day) to mark the 147th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, an Indian freedom fighter and independent India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, who had a major role in the political integration of India.
Consul General Somnath Ghosh, in his opening remarks said, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel lived an extraordinary life in extraordinary times. His vital role in the Indian freedom struggle and unification of States earned him the title of 'Iron Man of India'. Sardar Patel became the first Deputy Prime Minister of free India in 1947, and history remembers him as the builder and consolidator of New India.
The event was attended by scholars of Hindi and different languages of India. It also included members of the Indian diaspora from different States of the US Midwest and several children and youth.
The prominent Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awardee, Dr. Bharat Barai spoke about the life and work of Sardar Patel. Dr. Rakesh Kumar, President of the International Hindi Association (IHA-Indiana Chapter) in his remarks mentioned how IHA’s efforts have contributed to national unity. Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, prominent Hindi poet and President, Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) delivered a brief talk on "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat". The Consulate also made an effort to engage youth and children in these celebrations, who recited patriotic poems and songs.