SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Friday said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was not only the architect of India’s political integration but also a strong advocate of Indian federalism, describing the country’s federal structure as a unique model that unites diverse languages, cultures and traditions under the Constitution.
The Governor was addressing the inaugural session of the international seminar on “Sardar Patel’s Vision of Integration, Integrity and Federalism” and inaugurating the “Vande Mataram: Ek Yatra” exhibition at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla.
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, who was scheduled to attend the event, could not participate due to inclement weather. His video message was played during the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said the exhibition reflects the cultural and emotional awakening that inspired India’s freedom movement, while the seminar revisits Sardar Patel’s visionary leadership in unifying the nation and strengthening its democratic framework.
Describing “Vande Mataram” as the soul of India’s freedom struggle, he said Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s iconic composition inspired generations of freedom fighters with patriotism, sacrifice and national service. He noted that the exhibition serves as a living chronicle of India’s national awakening, particularly for the younger generation.
Paying tribute to Sardar Patel, Gupta said his contribution went far beyond the integration of over 560 princely states. He recalled Patel’s leadership during the Bardoli Satyagraha and praised his discipline, organisational skills and unwavering commitment to nation-building.
The Governor also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to establish the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, calling it a fitting tribute to Patel’s legacy and a symbol of the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
He urged scholars, researchers, students and citizens to imbibe Patel’s ideals of unity, integrity and patriotism, and encouraged young people to visit the Statue of Unity to better understand the Iron Man’s contribution to national integration.
On the occasion, the Governor released a coffee table book on “Vande Mataram”, the seminar proceedings titled “Darsana of Radhakrishnan: Eternal and Temporal”, and a multilingual poetry volume on Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. He also visited the exhibition curated by researcher and author Akhilesh Jha.
Earlier, IIAS Chairperson Prof. Shashi Prabha Kumar welcomed the Governor and highlighted the institute’s programmes marking its 60th Foundation Year. The event was also addressed by Organizer Weekly Editor Prafulla Ketkar and IIAS Director Prof. Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi. Senior academicians, officials and dignitaries were present on the occasion.
