By: Prerna Bharti
Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, observed National Unity Day with a special lecture commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna and the “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The theme of the event was “Jammu and Kashmir and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.”
The program was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sangeeta Shukla, while Prof. (Dr.) K. D. Sharma, a distinguished historian and senior academic, served as the chief guest and keynote speaker. The event was coordinated by Prof. Krishnakant Sharma, Convener of the Literary and Cultural Council, and moderated by Prof. Neelu Jain Gupta.
Now in his 82nd year, Prof. K. D. Sharma delivered a passionate address reflecting decades of research dedicated to Sardar Patel’s life and legacy. He shared personal experiences from his extensive fieldwork across Gujarat, including visits to the Sabarmati Ashram, the banks of the Narmada River, and interactions with the Patel family.
His presentation offered rare insights into the historical process of Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India, referencing correspondence between Sardar Patel and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to illustrate the complexities of that period.
“Sardar Patel did not merely unify the princely states; he united the very soul of India,” Prof. Sharma remarked, emphasising Patel’s vision, courage, and commitment to national integrity.
In her presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shukla highlighted that National Unity Day is not just a ceremonial event but a day of personal resolve for every citizen. She underscored Sardar Patel’s role in integrating a divided nation and urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from his leadership to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. She reaffirmed the university’s dedication to promoting national unity, social harmony, and cultural cohesion.
Held at the Atal Sabhagar, the program drew a large audience of faculty members, administrators, staff, and students. The event also featured a short film on Sardar Patel’s life, a quiz competition, and literary presentations. Participants paid floral tributes to Sardar Patel’s portrait, collectively pledging to uphold the ideals of unity and integrity.
Among those present were Registrar Dr Anil Kumar Yadav, Prof. Vighnesh Tyagi, Prof. Jamal Ahmad Siddiqui, Engineer Praveen Pawar, and Mitendra Kumar Gupta, among others.
