Statue Of Unity Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary
The largest statue in India, dedicated to the Iron Man of the nation, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the “Statue of Unity,” was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Modi in 2018, establishing it as the world’s tallest statue. This monumental achievement not only stands as a testament to Patel’s legacy but also brings forth a significant transformation in the region as it celebrates its five-year anniversary today.
On October 31, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, inaugurated the Statue of Unity. This towering structure, standing at 182 meters, became a symbol of national pride and a historical landmark. Its inauguration saw an overwhelming response, with a staggering 453,020 visitors on the very first day, followed by over 27 lakh visitors in the year 2019.
In less than five years since its inauguration, the Statue of Unity has welcomed nearly 1.5 crore visitors. This monumental attraction has significantly contributed to the tourism industry and local economy. The following annual visitor statistics illustrate the statue’s growing popularity:
| Sno. | Year | Visitors (in lakhs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2018 | 4.53 |
| 2 | 2019 | 27.45 |
| 3 | 2020 | 12.81 (Pandemic Time) |
| 4 | 2021 | 34.29 |
| 5 | 2022 | 41.32 |
| 6 | 2023 | 31.92 |
The Statue of Unity has not only attracted tourists from Gujarat and across India but also from around the world. The local population has seen new employment opportunities generated by the tourism industry, further boosting the region’s economy.
The decision to construct the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya, Narmada district, was announced by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, in 2010. Following its completion in 2018, the region has undergone a significant transformation. Kevadiya is no longer just a place of historical importance but has evolved into “Ekta Nagar” (Unity City). This transformation symbolizes the unity and progress inspired by Sardar Patel’s ideals.
As the Statue of Unity celebrates its fifth anniversary, it continues to be one of Prime Minister Modi’s dream projects. Every year, on this occasion, Prime Minister Modi visits the monument to pay tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the country’s first Home Minister. He has emphasized how Sardar Patel’s legacy is a source of inspiration for future generations to walk with their heads held high. This iconic monument serves as a constant reminder of India’s unity and its dedication to the ideals upheld by Patel.
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