SHIMLA: Governor Kavinder Gupta said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was not only the architect of India’s political integration but also a strong champion of Indian federalism. He observed that India’s federal structure is unique in the world, where diverse languages, cultures and traditions are united by the Constitution, which serves as the foundation of national unity.
The Governor was addressing the inaugural session of the international seminar on ‘Sardar Patel’s Vision of Integration, Integrity and Federalism’ and the inauguration of the ‘Vande Mataram: Ek Yatra’ exhibition at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, today. The Vice President of India, C.P. Radhakrishnan, who was scheduled to grace the occasion, could not attend due to inclement weather. A video message from the Vice President was presented during the programme. He said the two events commemorated two enduring pillars of India’s national consciousness. While the ‘Vande Mataram: Ek Yatra’ exhibition reflects the cultural and emotional awakening that inspired millions during the freedom movement, the seminar revisits Sardar Patel’s visionary leadership in unifying the nation and laying the foundation of a strong and united India.
Describing ‘Vande Mataram’ as the soul of India’s freedom struggle, the Governor said that Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s immortal composition inspired generations of freedom fighters with the spirit of sacrifice, patriotism and national service. He said that the exhibition was not merely a display of historical documents and photographs but a living chronicle of India’s national awakening, especially for the younger generation.
The Governor also appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative in establishing the Statue of Unity at Kevadia, Gujarat, describing it as a lasting tribute to Sardar Patel’s unparalleled contribution to national integration and a powerful symbol of the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.’
On the occasion, the Governor released the 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 ‘Vande Mataram: Ek Yatra’ exhibition, curated by noted researcher and author Akhilesh Jha, with significant contributions from co-curator Rashmita Jha and researcher Shreyasi Jha.
Earlier, Prof. Shashi Prabha Kumar, Chairperson, IIAS, welcomed the Governor and highlighted the institute’s year-long programmes marking its 60th Foundation Year. Editor of Organizer Weekly Prafulla Ketkar spoke on Sardar Patel’s historic contribution to the creation of a united India. Director, IIAS, Prof. Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi welcomed and honoured the Governor and briefed the gathering on the exhibition and the international seminar. Secretary IIAS Mehar Chand Negi, proposed the vote of thanks.
