Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday led the ‘Run for Unity’ held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on the occasion of sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary and National Unity Day.
Speaking at the event organised by the Sports and Youth Services Department, the Chief Minister said unity, brotherhood, and patriotism are the pillars of a developed India.
Describing unity in diversity as the soul and strength of the nation, Majhi said that irrespective of caste, religion, or language, every citizen is an India, and this shared identity keeps the country strong and united.
Paying rich tribute to Vallabhbhai Patel, the CM described him as the great leader who united hundreds of princely states to build an integrated India. “It is because of Sardar Patel’s firm determination and vision that we see India as one nation today,” said Majhi.
Recalling the contributions of Patel, the Chief Minister urged people to work together with unity and collective effort to realise the dream of a developed India. He said the ‘Run for Unity’ symbolises harmony, togetherness, and national pride.
Majhi also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the Run for Unity in 2014, and in 2018 unveiled the 182-metre-tall ‘Statue of Unity’ at Kevadia in Gujarat, which stands as the tallest statue in the world and a symbol of India’s pride.
Stating that the run reminds everyone that unity is both the country’s collective will and its greatest strength, the CM called for strengthening the bonds of brotherhood, peace, and prosperity to build a developed Odisha and a stronger India.
Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the event aims to spread the spirit of unity, harmony, and patriotism and inspire everyone to contribute to building a powerful nation.
The mass run began from Kalinga Stadium and continued up to Power House Square. Thousands of citizens, including senior officials, students, and sportspersons, participated in the ‘Run for Unity’ event.