Emotional moments when performances of divyangjans transformed “Bharat Bharathi” program unforgettable

This Sunday has been a special day for me since I was the special guest in the function by “Bharat Bharathi”, a Tapestry of Unity Honouring Sardar Patel.

The ‘Bharat Bharathi’ program, held in Hyderabad today (November 9, 2025), was a spectacular cultural confluence organized to mark the ongoing celebrations of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (born October 31, 1875).

This event perfectly mirrored Sardar Patel’s colossal legacy by celebrating the rich diversity of the Indian demographic system through art, performance, and inclusivity.

The Historical Resonance of Sardar Patel
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often revered as the ‘Iron Man of India’, played an indispensable role as the nation’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister in the aftermath of Independence.

Patel’s defining achievement was the swift and effective integration of over 560 princely states into the Union of India.

These states, which constituted nearly 40% of the territory, were a challenge to the new nation’s unity.

Using a combination of diplomacy, persuasion (through the Instrument of Accession), and decisive action (as seen in Hyderabad and Junagadh), Patel prevented the balkanization of India.

His work was not about imposing uniformity but about creating a strong territorial and administrative framework that could accommodate India’s vast cultural, linguistic, and regional diversities—the very essence of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India).

The celebrations, like ‘Bharat Bharathi,’ serve as a potent reminder that the unity of modern India is a direct consequence of his pragmatic nationalism and unwavering resolve.

The ‘Bharat Bharathi’ event in Hyderabad was a living testament to the unity Patel forged, utilizing cultural expression to highlight the nation’s strength in its diversity.

The main program featured cultural presentations by artists from 15 different states, performing iconic traditional folk dances.

This showcase vividly mapped India’s geographical and cultural expanse onto a single stage, echoing Patel’s success in bringing all these distinct regions under one flag.

A special and deeply moving focus of the evening was the cultural program by differently-abled children. This inclusion is particularly significant, as it expands the concept of National Unity beyond geography, language, and religion, to embrace all sections of society, including those with special needs (Divyangjan).

Their performance underscored the idea that every citizen, regardless of ability, is an integral and talented part of the national fabric, fostering a sense of comprehensive, compassionate nationhood.

I raised the question: Why did they invite me as the special guest?

I was humbled by the request by beloved Mrs.Dr. Meenakshi Padmanabhan, who is the driving force behind the event and a noted socio- cultural leader, replied that me,being a noted philanthropist and leader of a Malayali organisation as Global Vice Chairman of the World Malayali Council & President, Telangana Nair Seva Society,as the Chief Guest further symbolized this unity.

And further explained that my role highlights the continuous cultural and social cohesion between regions (Kerala, Telangana, and the national umbrella) and the contribution of diverse community leaders to national celebratory programs.

In essence, the ‘Bharat Bharathi’ program was a powerful contemporary reaffirmation of Sardar Patel’s legacy: using culture and inclusion to demonstrate that India’s unity is not just political, but a vibrant, resilient, and enduring social reality.