31st October 2022 marked 147th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and it is gratifying to note that the Patels from the National Associations of Patidar Samaj and Karamsad Samaj UK in conjunction with Vaso Nagrik Mandal UK, now in their golden jubilee year held a function in Tooting, south London to remember one the most memorable Indian freedom fighter leaders on Sunday 30th October 2022. The invited guests also celebrated Diwali with karaoke music, homemade food, fund raising and a raffle.
Lord and Lady Dholakia and Sanjay Kumar from the High Commission of India were among chief guests gracing the occasion. The function commenced with lighting of Diya by the guests and then relevant presidents of the associations. Such functions are vital for sustaining our culture against all the odds and onslaught of western influence affecting our way of living, our religion and adherence to India.
Many of you would have visited the towering Statue of Unity, now the tallest in the world on the banks of river Narmada was constructed following the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modiji’s announcement in October 2013. The sheer magnitude, posture and pose justify the great man’s personality. Every bit of his life and experiences are textbook example of how one should dedicate their life for their country when most needed.
Lord Dholakia commenced by saying how wonderful it was to be among the guests and Diwali 2022 brought us utter joy not only festive celebration as well Rishi Sunak as first Indian origin Prime Minister of UK. He lauded the success of Indian community many of came with only £3 in pocket and expects better trade partnership between UK and India. Of Sardar Patel he said Vallabhbhai was very honest, keen on education, gave up his own UK visa to his brother before his own journey to UK, qualifying as a barrister. Lord Dholakia mentioned that among over 500 princely states, the Bhavnagar Raja was the first in the country to offer his state to Sardar Patel. The president of Karamsad Samaj also shared some the main achievements and legacy of the great man who although born in Nadiad had a homestead in Karamsad.
Mr Sanjay Kumar praised the efforts of the Patidar Samaj, especially Pravin bhai Amin in assisting HCI in urgent local tasks. Of Sardar Patel he added never enough will be said but to add that his valiant efforts in unifying various states for Independent India to operate as a federal structure was great achievement. He also encouraged the diaspora to visit India and attend Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on 8-10 January 2023
The evening was rounded off by cultural dance, garba and more songs form Bollywood’s yesteryears followed by a delicious meal.
Mr. Jayesh Patel of Abbey care and an ardent benefactor of Balham temple and Ilford Hindu centre gave vote of thanks to committee members and organisers.
Jai Hind:Desh Premi
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very good