Why is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel called the Iron man of India?

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a strong and honest leader who respected different opinions and firmly believed in India’s unity. He valued how Indians fought together against British rule and was committed to moving the country from Swarajya (self-rule) to Surajya (good governance). He also supported women’s rights and believed that industrial growth would lead to self-reliance.

Patel followed Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement and chose to wear only khadi (hand-spun cloth). He became a key leader in the Indian National Congress, organizing the party for the 1934 and 1937 elections and actively supporting the Quit India Movement.

Using diplomacy and clear vision, Sardar Patel helped bring together the 562 princely states into one united India—without war or violence. His leadership, negotiation skills, and dedication played a major role in shaping modern India. Because of his strong efforts to unify the nation, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is known as the Iron Man of India.