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Statue of Unity

India is a great nation, which is identified by its historical heritage, cultural diversity and the unique contribution of extraordinary leaders. Many great men have contributed to maintaining the unity and integrity of India, one of whom was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who is called the 'Iron Man'. His contribution to the creation of independent India was so important and influential that he is also called the 'Bismarck of India'. The 'Statue of Unity' built in his honor has today become a symbol of India's national unity, perseverance and development.

The Statue of Unity is not just a monument, but it is a symbol of an ideology, which tells us how a visionary leadership can save the country from being divided into pieces and make it a strong nation. This statue is not only a tribute to Sardar Patel, but it is also a source of inspiration for future generations.

Biography of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel hailed from Nadiad, a town in today’s Gujarat. He was a determined, hardworking and fearless personality. After establishing himself as a successful lawyer, he joined the freedom movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and made a significant contribution to India’s independence.

His greatest achievement was that after independence, he firmly worked to merge 562 princely states of India into the Republic of India. For this work, he was privileged to take difficult decisions and make India a strong and united nation.

Statue of Unity: An Introduction

The Statue of Unity is the world's tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, located in Kevadia village in Narmada district of Gujarat state. The statue stands on an island called 'Sadhu Bet' on the banks of the Narmada River and the huge Sardar Sarovar Dam is located in front of it. This place is a unique confluence of natural beauty and architecture.

The height of this statue is 182 meters (597 feet), which makes it the tallest statue in the world. In comparison:

  • America's Statue of Liberty: 93 meters (including base)
  • China's Spring Temple Buddha: 128 meters
  • Japan's Ushiku Daibutsu: 120 meters

Thus, the Statue of Unity is a wonderful example of India's architecture and technical capability.

Inspiration and background of construction

The idea of building the Statue of Unity was presented in 2010 by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Narendra Modi. His objective was to convey the incomparable contribution of Sardar Patel to future generations and to establish the symbol of India's unity globally.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) was established to give concrete shape to this project. The foundation stone of this statue was laid on 31 October 2013 on the 138th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel and it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 October 2018.

Key features of construction

1. Design and architecture

  • The statue was designed by renowned Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar.
  • The responsibility of construction work was given to Larsen & Toubro (L&T), India's leading infrastructure company.

2. Technical details

  • Total height: 182 meters (statue) + 58 meters (base) = 240 meters
  • Materials:
    1. Bronze cladding: 1,700 tons
    2. Structural steel: 6,500 tons
    3. Reinforcement steel: 18,500 tons
    4. Cement Concrete: 2,10,000 cubic meters

3. Support in construction

  • 'Iron campaign': Iron from old tools of millions of farmers of India was collected.
  • This made this statue a 'statue of public sentiment', not just made with the participation of the government, but also with the participation of the common people.

Tourism and facilities

The Statue of Unity is not limited to just a statue, but it has been developed as a tourist destination. There are many modern facilities and attractions here:

1. Viewing Gallery

  • It is located inside the statue at a height of 153 meters.
  • From here, a spectacular view of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the surrounding valleys is visible.

2. Unity Museum and Audio-Visual Gallery

  • Detailed information about the life, struggle and work of Sardar Patel.
  • Presentation of historical events through digital medium.

3. Light and sound show

  • In the evening, the story of Sardar Patel's life is presented through laser and projection shows.

4. Valley of Flowers

  • Beautiful flower garden spread over an area of about 17 kilometers.

5. Jungle Safari and Zoo

  • Spread over 300 acres, which has animals and birds of different species.

6. Boating and Cactus Garden

  • To enjoy nature with adventure.

7. Ekta Cruise and Helipad Services

  • Boat trip in Narmada River and helicopter ride for aerial view.

Economic and social impact

The Statue of Unity is not just a monument, but it has become a source of local development and employment.

Employment opportunities

  • During the construction work, millions of people got direct and indirect employment.
  • Now employment has also been created in services like guides, security, hotels, transportation etc. at the tourist center.

Promotion of tourism

  • This place has been included in the top 5 tourist destinations of India.
  • Thousands of tourists come here every day, which boosts the local economy.

Development of local infrastructure

  • Roads, railways, hotels, parking, drainage etc. facilities were developed.

Inspiration and cultural significance

This statue of Sardar Patel gives the message to every citizen of India that:

  • Unity and integrity are the greatest strength of any nation.
  • Leadership is not just a position, but a duty and responsibility.
  • The success of Indian democracy is possible only when every citizen is dedicated to the nation.

International recognition

  • The Statue of Unity has given India a new cultural identity at the global level.
  • Tourists from all over the world come to see it.
  • It shows India's leading role in the world's architectural capabilities.

Criticism and discussion

Some people criticized the cost of this project. The statue was built at a cost of about ₹ 2,989 crores. Critics argued that this money could have been spent on poverty, education or health.

But in response to this it was said that:

  • This monument is a source of India's identity, national sentiment and inspiration.
  • This investment will benefit the country back through tourism and employment.

Our responsibility

This monument forces all of us to think that:

  • Are we building the India of Sardar Patel's dreams?
  • Are we playing an active role in maintaining our unity?
  • Are we able to put national interest above personal interests?

If not, then it is time for introspection. The Statue of Unity not only reminds us of the past but also gives us an opportunity to take a pledge for the future.

Conclusion

The Statue of Unity is not just a statue made of metal, cement and bronze. It is a symbol of the soul of India. It is a pillar of unity, a symbol of determination and an indelible message of patriotism. This monument reminds us that the hands that join the country are always revered.

Today, when India is facing many social and political challenges, this statue inspires us -

"Nation first, self later."

Let us not limit the message of this monument to just a tourist spot, but inculcate it in our lives, work and society. This will be a true tribute to Sardar Patel.

Resolution: "We are one, will remain one, and will create a great India, a great India."