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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875-1950) – A Short Biography

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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875-1950) was an Indian politician and statesman who played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. He was born in Nadiad, Gujarat, and studied law in London before returning to India to practice law.

In 1917, Patel joined the Indian National Congress, which was at the forefront of the independence movement. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a prominent leader, known for his pragmatic approach and excellent organizational skills.

After India gained independence in 1947, Patel was instrumental in the integration of the princely states into the Indian union. He worked tirelessly to persuade the rulers of these states to join India, using a combination of persuasion and force when necessary. His efforts were successful, and by 1950, all of the princely states had been integrated into the Indian union.

Patel was also known as the “Iron Man of India” for his strong leadership and uncompromising attitude. He served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and was responsible for the Home Affairs and the Ministry of States. Unfortunately, Patel passed away in 1950, but he is remembered as a great leader and one of the architects of modern India.

 

Other Names Of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was also known by several other names, reflecting his contributions and achievements. Here are some of them:

  1. Iron Man of India: This name was given to Patel for his iron-willed determination, firmness, and strong leadership qualities.
  2. Bismarck of India: Patel was also referred to as the “Bismarck of India” for his role in unifying the country, just like Otto von Bismarck, who was instrumental in unifying Germany.
  3. Sardar: “Sardar” is a Hindi and Urdu word that means “leader” or “chief.” This name was given to Patel by the farmers of Bardoli in Gujarat, whom he had led in a successful campaign against oppressive British taxes.
  4. Patron Saint of India’s Civil Servants: Patel is also known as the “Patron Saint of India’s Civil Servants” because of his efforts to create a strong and efficient civil service in India.
  5. Architect of Independent India: Patel played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and was one of the key leaders who helped shape India’s future after gaining independence and so he is also called the “Architect of Independent India.”
  6. Man of Steel: This nickname is a reference to Patel’s strong and unyielding personality, as well as his role in the integration of the princely states into the Indian union.

 

Childhood History:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born on October 31, 1875, in the village of Karamsad in the state of Gujarat, India. His father, Jhaverbhai Patel, was a farmer and a village headman, and his mother, Laad Bai, was a homemaker. Patel was the fourth of six children.

As a child, Patel was known for his intelligence and hard work. He was also a quiet and reserved child who was interested in reading and learning. Patel attended primary school in his village and later went to a high school in the nearby town of Nadiad. After completing his high school education, Patel went to college in Bombay (now Mumbai) to study law.

During his college days, Patel faced financial difficulties, and he had to work hard to support himself. He would often study late into the night and then work at a law firm during the day. Despite these challenges, Patel excelled in his studies and graduated with honors.

Patel’s childhood was marked by the poverty and hardships that were common in rural India at the time. However, his experiences taught him the value of hard work and perseverance, which would later serve him well in his political career.

 

Early Life:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel grew up in a family of farmers and was the fourth of six children.

Patel’s early education took place in the village school in Karamsad, where he was a bright student. He later attended a high school in Nadiad, where he excelled in his studies. Patel went on to study law in Bombay (now Mumbai), where he faced financial difficulties and had to work hard to support himself.

After completing his studies, Patel returned to Gujarat and started practicing law. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled lawyer and became involved in political activities. In 1917, he joined the Indian National Congress, which was at the forefront of the Indian independence movement.

Patel’s early life was marked by poverty and hard work. He grew up in a time when India was under British colonial rule, and he witnessed firsthand the injustices and inequalities that were a part of everyday life. These experiences helped shape his political views and his determination to work towards Indian independence and the betterment of its people.

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel And Indian National Congress:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a significant role in the Indian National Congress, which was at the forefront of the Indian independence movement. Patel joined the Congress in 1917 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional organizational skills and his ability to mobilize people.

In 1920, the Congress launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, which aimed to boycott British goods and institutions. Patel actively participated in this movement, which marked the beginning of his political career. He was arrested several times during this period, but this did not deter him from continuing his political activities.

Patel played a key role in the Salt Satyagraha, a nonviolent civil disobedience campaign against British salt taxes that took place in 1930. He was arrested along with other Congress leaders and was imprisoned for several months.

After his release from prison, Patel played a significant role in the negotiations that led to Indian independence in 1947. He was a member of the Congress Working Committee and was instrumental in convincing the princely states to join the Indian Union.

Patel’s contribution to the Indian National Congress was immense. He was a skilled organizer and a talented strategist who worked tirelessly to achieve Indian independence. His leadership qualities and his commitment to the cause inspired millions of Indians and made him one of the most respected leaders of the independence movement.

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Contribution To India’s Struggle for Independence:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence. He was one of the leading figures of the Indian National Congress and worked tirelessly to mobilize people and organize campaigns against British rule. Some of his major contributions to India’s independence movement are:

  1. Non-Cooperation Movement: In 1920, Patel actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement launched by the Indian National Congress, which aimed to boycott British goods and institutions. He was arrested several times during this period.
  2. Salt Satyagraha: Patel played a key role in the Salt Satyagraha, a nonviolent civil disobedience campaign against British salt taxes that took place in 1930. He was arrested along with other Congress leaders and was imprisoned for several months.
  3. Quit India Movement: In 1942, Patel supported the Quit India Movement, which was launched by the Indian National Congress to demand the immediate withdrawal of British colonial rule. He was arrested along with other Congress leaders and was imprisoned for three years.
  4. Integration of Princely States: After India’s independence in 1947, Patel played a critical role in the integration of the princely states into the Indian Union. He was appointed as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and the Minister of Home Affairs. He negotiated with the rulers of the princely states and convinced them to accede to India.

Patel’s contribution to India’s struggle for independence was immense. He was a skilled organizer and a talented strategist who worked tirelessly to achieve Indian independence. His leadership qualities and his commitment to the cause inspired millions of Indians and made him one of the most respected leaders of the independence movement.

 

Relation With Mahatma Gandhi:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel shared a close relationship with Mahatma Gandhi, who was one of the most prominent leaders of the Indian independence movement. Patel and Gandhi first met in 1917, when Patel joined the Indian National Congress.

Over the years, Patel and Gandhi developed a close bond, and Patel became one of Gandhi’s most trusted advisors. Patel shared Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence and was a staunch believer in his ideas and principles.

During the Non-Cooperation Movement, Patel played a key role in mobilizing people and organizing protests. He was arrested along with other Congress leaders, including Gandhi. Patel and Gandhi worked together to coordinate the Congress’s activities and to achieve their common goal of Indian independence.

After India’s independence in 1947, Patel was appointed as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and the Minister of Home Affairs. Gandhi played an important role in his appointment, and Patel continued to seek his guidance and advice in matters of governance.

However, Patel and Gandhi did have their differences at times. One of the most significant disagreements between them was over the partition of India, which Gandhi opposed but Patel supported. Despite their differences, Patel and Gandhi shared a deep mutual respect and admiration for each other, and their relationship remained strong until Gandhi’s assassination in 1948.

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Contribution To Indian Politics:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel made significant contributions to Indian politics, both during the independence movement and after India’s independence in 1947. Some of his major contributions are:

  1. Integration of Princely States: After India’s independence, Patel played a critical role in integrating the princely states into the Indian Union. He negotiated with the rulers of the princely states and convinced them to accede to India. He is widely credited with ensuring the territorial integrity of India and preventing it from being fragmented into smaller states.
  2. Constitution-making: Patel was a member of the Constituent Assembly of India and played an active role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. He served as the chairman of the committee that drafted the Provincial Constitution Committee report.
  3. Home Minister: After India’s independence, Patel was appointed as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and the Minister of Home Affairs. He played a key role in the integration of the Indian police and security forces and in the establishment of the All India Services.
  4. Economic Policy: Patel was a proponent of a mixed economy and believed in promoting both private and public sectors. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Planning Commission, which was responsible for formulating India’s economic policies.
  5. Civil Liberties: Patel was a strong advocate for civil liberties and believed in protecting the rights of all citizens. He played a key role in the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and the Law Commission of India.

Patel’s contribution to Indian politics was immense. He was a visionary leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of his country and his people. His leadership qualities, organizational skills, and commitment to the cause continue to inspire Indians even today.

 

Death:

 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel passed away on December 15, 1950, due to a heart attack. at the age of 75 years. Patel’s death was a great loss to the nation, as he was widely regarded as one of India’s greatest leaders. His contributions to Indian independence and the early years of independent India were immense, and his legacy continues to inspire Indians even today. Patel is remembered for his commitment to national unity, his leadership qualities, and his tireless efforts to ensure the welfare of his country and its people.

 

Conclusion:

 

In conclusion, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement and played a crucial role in shaping India’s post-independence era. He was instrumental in the integration of the princely states and in the establishment of a strong, united India. Patel was also a key member of the Constituent Assembly of India and played an active role in drafting the Indian Constitution.

After India’s independence, Patel served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Home Affairs, where he played a critical role in the establishment of the Indian police and security forces. He was a strong advocate for civil liberties and believed in protecting the rights of all citizens.

Patel’s legacy continues to inspire Indians even today, and he is widely regarded as one of India’s greatest leaders. His leadership qualities, organizational skills, and commitment to the cause of India’s independence and unity continue to inspire future generations of Indians.

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