Embassy of India

Belgrade

Press Release

Commemoration of 142^nd Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel 31^st October 2017 

The 142^nd Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as ‘Iron Man of India’, one of the great social leaders who played a crucial role in the freedom of India and the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India, is being observed in Serbia by organizing screening of the documentary film titled "Life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel" and special lectures on the life and times of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Faculty of Philology, University of Belgrade; Faculty of Philosophy, University of Novi Sad; 8^th Gymnasium High School, Belgrade; etc. The documentary film "Life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel" will also be telecast by Serbian National Channel RTS today at 2155 hrs. 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was one of the founding fathers of the Republic of India. A statesman of integrity, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a quintessential role in helping India garner independence from the British rule. He was the man who guided the country to become a united, independent nation.  For his leadership activities and the ability to lead thousands of people, he was given the forename ‘Sardar’, meaning Chief.

As India's first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Sardar Patel played a key role in the integration of over 500 princely states into the Indian Union.  It was his sheer sense of wisdom, practical acumen, sharp mind, great organizational skills and political insight that helped Patel become one amongst the greatest leaders of India. He was bestowed with India’s highest civilian award ‘Bharat Ratna’ in the year 1991.

Place: Belgrade
Date: October 31, 2017

*****