Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Friday said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was not only the architect of India's political integration but also one of the strongest champions of Indian federalism, whose vision continues to shape the country's unity and governance.
Seminar on Patel's vision at IIAS
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, the Governor said India's federal structure is unique, bringing together diverse languages, cultures and traditions under the Constitution, which serves as the bedrock of national unity.
The Vice President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, who was scheduled to attend the programme, could not do so because of inclement weather. His video message was played during the event.
Exhibition and cultural awakening
Gupta said the exhibition captures the cultural and emotional awakening that inspired millions during the freedom struggle, while the seminar revisits Sardar Patel's visionary leadership in integrating the nation and laying the foundation of a strong and united India. Describing Vande Mataram as the soul of India's freedom movement, the Governor said Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's immortal composition inspired generations of freedom fighters with the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice and national service. He added that the exhibition is more than a display of historical documents and photographs, calling it a living chronicle of India's national awakening, particularly for the younger generation.
Tribute to Sardar Patel
Paying tribute to Sardar Patel, Gupta said his contribution went far beyond the integration of more than 560 princely states. He recalled Patel's leadership during the Bardoli Satyagraha, his organisational abilities, discipline and unwavering commitment to nation-building, which earned him the title of 'Sardar'.
Book releases and other events
During the programme, the Governor released a coffee table book on Vande Mataram, the seminar proceedings on '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, with contributions from co-curator Rashmita Jha and researcher Shreyasi Jha.
Earlier, IIAS Chairperson Prof Shashi Prabha Kumar highlighted the institute's year-long programmes marking its 60th Foundation Year, while Organiser Weekly Editor Prafulla Ketkar spoke on Patel's role in forging a united India. IIAS Director Prof Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi welcomed the Governor and outlined the significance of the seminar.
