The Unveiling of the Statue of Unity: A Controversial Monument in India

The Statue of Unity, a colossal monument dedicated to Vallabhbhai Patel, stands prominently in the Indian state of Gujarat. Unveiled on October 31, 2018, the statue commemorates Patel’s role as India‘s first deputy prime minister and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence. At 597 feet (182 meters), it was recognized upon its completion as the tallest statue in the world, reaching a total height of 787 feet (240 meters) with its base.

Located on Sadhu Bet Island in the Narmada River, the statue is situated approximately 90 kilometers southeast of the city of Vadodara, near the town of Ekta Nagar, previously known as Kevadia. It stands downstream from the Sardar Sarovar Dam, a project once envisioned by Patel himself, which was completed in 2017.

Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the “Iron Man of India,” played a pivotal role in the unification of the country after independence in 1947. He and V.P. Menon are credited with integrating more than 560 princely states into the Republic of India, ensuring national unity at a crucial time following British colonial rule. In recognition of his contributions, India observes October 31 as National Unity Day.

The creation of the Statue of Unity was proposed in 2010 by Narendra Modi, then the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later the Prime Minister of India. The project was managed by Larsen & Toubro Limited, with construction overseen by noted sculptor Ram Sutar. The statue is crafted from bronze-coated cement and steel, depicting Patel with a traditional shawl, with his gaze set towards the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

The statue’s base includes an exhibition hall detailing Patel’s life and achievements, and The Wall of Unity features soil collected from villages throughout India. A viewing gallery situated at 193 meters offers panoramic views, while a nightly light show narrates Patel’s historic contributions.

Despite its grandeur, the construction of the Statue of Unity has been a subject of controversy. Critics have pointed to the project’s $400 million (approximately 3,000 crore rupees) cost amid persistent poverty in India. Concerns have also been raised regarding the displacement of approximately 5,000 individuals from tribal communities, known as Adivasis, who were moved to make way for tourist developments at the site. Although compensation and employment opportunities were provided to relocated residents, these were deemed inadequate by many.