Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India, was a founding father of the Republic of India and played a crucial role in the country’s independence from British rule. Born in a Gujarati family, Patel initially trained to become a lawyer but was inspired by Gandhi’s teachings and dedicated his life to the Indian struggle for independence. As a leader of the Indian National Congress, he gained prominence for his work in saving peasants from oppressive British policies through non-violent civil disobedience. Patel’s ability to lead from the front earned him the title of Sardar, meaning Chief. He is also credited for establishing modern all-India civil services and is remembered as the ‘Patron Saint’ of India’s civil servants. With his wisdom, practical acumen, organizational skills, and political insight, Patel became one of India’s greatest leaders.
Quick Facts
- Indian Celebrities Born In October
- Also Known As: Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel, Sardar
- Died At Age: 75
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Jhaverba Patel
- Father: Jhaverbhai Patel
- Mother: Laad Bai
- Siblings: Dahiba, Kashibhai, Narsibhai, Somabhai, Vithalbhai Patel
- Children: Dahyabhai Patel, Maniben Patel
- Lawyers
- Economists
- Political ideology: Indian National Congress
- Died on: December 15, 1950
- Place of death: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Notable Alumni: Inns Of Court School Of Law
- Cause of Death: Heart Attack
- More Facts
- Education: Inns Of Court School Of Law
- Awards: 1991 – Bharat Ratna
Childhood & Early Life
Born to a Gujarati family in the village of Karamsad, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the fourth of the six children of his father, Jhaveribhai. He had three elder brothers, and a younger brother and sister. From a young age, Vallabhbhai showed signs of being tough and physically strong. He would often fast for a day, abstaining from food and water. He received his education in schools in Nadiad, Petlad, and Borsad, completing his matriculation at the age of 22. Despite his family thinking he was unambitious, Vallabhbhai had plans of becoming a barrister. He studied on borrowed books from lawyers, worked hard, saved funds, and passed the examination in two years.
Early Career
After completing his studies, Vallabhbhai practiced law in Godhra, Borsad, and Anand. He also served as the first chairman of the E.M.H.S (Edward Memorial High School). With enough savings, Vallabhbhai applied for a pass and ticket to England, which was granted to him under the name ‘V.T. Patel’. However, his brother Vithalbhai, who had the same initials, requested to travel in his place. Vallabhbhai allowed him to go and even financed his brother’s stay. He started saving again to accomplish his goals and finally traveled to England in 1911. Despite not having a formal college education, he topped the 36-month course he had enrolled in.
Entry Into Politics
Upon returning to India, Vallabhbhai Patel started practicing as a barrister in Ahmedabad and quickly gained a reputation in legal circles. He became involved in politics after hearing Mahatma Gandhi speak at the Gujarat Political Conference in Godhra. Inspired by Gandhi’s words, Patel actively participated in the Indian independence movement. He was designated as the secretary of the Gujarat Sabha, which became the Gujarati arm of the Indian National Congress. Patel fought against the servitude of Indians to Europeans, organized relief efforts during plague and famine in Kheda, and played a leading role in the non-violent Civil Disobedience Movement. His leadership activities earned him the title of ‘Sardar’.
Role in Quit India Movement
As an ardent supporter of Gandhi, Vallabhbhai Patel took an active role in the Quit India Movement. He believed that mass civil disobedience would compel the British to leave India. Under the pressure of Gandhi and Patel, the All India Congress Committee launched the Quit India Movement on August 7, 1942. Patel influenced the large crowd that had assembled to take part in the civil disobedience, delivering a powerful speech that electrified nationalists.
Role in Partition
Vallabhbhai Patel played a significant role in the partition of India. He supported the partition as a solution to curb rising communal violence and the Muslim separatist movement led by Mohammad Jinnah. Patel successfully lobbied for the partition, making Nehru, Gandhi, and other Congress leaders accept the proposal. He represented India on the Partition Council and oversaw the division of public assets. Patel also played a crucial role in integrating the princely states into the Indian union, persuading 565 states to accede to India.
Personal Life & Legacy
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel married Jhaverba at the age of 18, and they had a daughter and a son. After Jhaverba’s death, Patel raised his children with the help of his family. His health started declining in 1950, and he passed away on December 15, 1950, after a massive heart attack. Patel was posthumously awarded India’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, in 1991. His birthday, October 31, is celebrated as Sardar Jayanti. His contributions are remembered through various educational institutes named after him, including Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Sardar Patel University, and Sardar Patel Vidyalaya.
Sardar Patel Statue of Unity
In honor of Sardar Patel’s contribution to the integration of India, the Government of India is planning to build a 182 meters tall statue of him. It will be the world’s tallest statue and will be built near Vadodara in Gujarat. The total cost of the project will be Rs 2,979 crore.
Trivia
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is popularly known as the ‘Iron Man of India’ and ‘Bismarck of India’. He was given the forename ‘Sardar’ for his leadership activities. He played a crucial role in unifying the princely states of India and is known as the ‘Patron Saint’ of India’s services.