While proceeding for the elevator to the statue gallery, visitors have to crane their necks way up to truly take in the immensity of the statue from its toe to its head, often experiencing minor cramps in the neck. However, this minor discomfort pales in comparison to the magnitude of the figure the statue represents. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, affectionately known as the “Iron Man of India,” was recognized for his unparalleled ability to endure pain, both physical and political. Even this towering statue, known as the Statue of Unity, is not tall enough to capture the might and strength of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a pivotal role in India’s independence and is revered as a true architect of a unified India.

Throughout history, the efforts and hard work of this tall and mighty personality were unjustly overlooked and marginalized in the deliberately sculpted narrative of India’s independence. It was only through the well-thought and well-intentioned efforts of the current government that Sardar Patel and his invaluable contributions to the nation were rightfully brought forth, culminating in the creation of the Statue of Unity – the tallest statue in the world. This monument stands not only as a testament to his enduring legacy but also as a reminder of the countless sacrifices made by individuals like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication laid the foundation for the India we know today.

My first big trip after coming back from the USA had to be something related to the rich culture of India. The Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat was an obvious choice due to its beautiful location between the Satpura and Vindhyachal hills. As I approached by car, I couldn’t miss the 182-meter Iron statue. It’s located near the Narmada river, surrounded by lush greenery. After parking in one of the many parking lots and taking a frequent bus, “pink auto” (driven by female drivers), or cab, I arrived at a large check-in counter. Each check-in point led to a long walking track towards a huge platform where Sardar Patel’s massive toes and feet are anchored. There are 3-4 escalators to reach the platform and stand right beside the statue. The statue proudly stands tall, offering a great opportunity to learn about Sardar Patel’s efforts to unify India while walking around the base building. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of independent India, made a tremendous effort to unite 562 princely states, using both diplomacy and force when necessary. Patel had the skills to convince the princes to willingly merge their kingdoms with India.

Kashmir Files: Unfortunately, and conspiratorially, Kashmir was made out of Sardar Patel's purview. Consequences of which resulted in long time issue of POK and incessant terrorism. While declaration of Independence was few days away (for both India and Pakistan), unmatched foresight of Sardar has warned then "to-be" PM Nehru and his aide Gandhi to get the unification paper sighed of J&K maharaja Harisingh at the earliest or be ready for military action. Both ignored, Pakistan captured large chunk of J&K and China also got his claws on Aksai China land. In addition, Pakistan brought gift of terrorism to J&K to spoil the heaven on earth, Kashmir. 

How to reach there: Whether you travelling by road or train or flight, Vadodara is the nearest well-known city. Its 90 kms from Vadodara by road to reach Kevadia. Roads are easy-going and appropriately sign-posted.

Statue of Sardar is not the only attraction. One can find many more other attractions nearby to get themselves entertained in many-fold ways. Jungle Safari is one such attraction. It is state-of-the-art zoological park with many animals and exotic birds. Two major aviaries, one for rain-forest tropical jungle birds and other for exotic water fouls are must to visit and experience. Then there are cactus garden and valley of flowers. While cactus garden is botanical garden with huge variety of cacti and succulents, valley of flower is a park with many varieties of colorful flowering plants and creepers. There is also butterfly park. Dino Trail is homage to Cretaceous period excavations of Narmada valley dinosaurs. It has replica of Rajasaurus Narmadensis, one of the T-rex like predator. You can also visit Sardar Sarovar Dam, Ekta Nursery, Children Nutrition Park and Viswa Van (World Forest).

One should at least be ready to spare two days to enjoy Statue of Unity in its entirety. To rush this beautiful site is not the true justice to what on offer. Best time to visit is when monsoon sets in India i.e. from mid July on wards. Try to avoid holidays and weekends if possible. Too much rush of people could spoil the whole experience. 

When someone thought against unified India...: Well-known story about Sardar Patel's iron-clad mindset to unify India was to be found in fates of princely states of Junagadh and Hyderabad's Nawab. Rulers of both states thought above India and decided to join with Pakistan even after their ridiculous geographical landlocked position by India. It was amusing that both could have entertain such thoughts. How could they have succeed with such arrangement was anyone's delight. But Sardar Patel was not in mood of entertainment and got minds of both rulers sorted out with army action and force.

Lakshadweep files: Comprised of 36 coral islands, Lakshadweep is located 200 to 400 Km off nearest Indian shore. Though part of India, it was more of afterthought once Independence declared both for India and Pakistan. It was race to capture such islands previously occupied by British. Pakistan was quick to send its destroyer to Lakshadweep with Pakistani flag. Way out of the Indian shore, Pakistan might be happy to get control over this very crucial island only to get disappointed when they saw Indian flag already flying on the island. It was Sardar Patel who thought to send someone to get the Indian flag flying on Lakshadweep as soon as independence. He was the person who can think way before people even start thinking about something.  

Date of Visit: 30-Dec-2023