Kevadia (Gujarat) [India], January 26: Actor Aamir Khan attended the Republic Day celebrations at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat on Sunday, offering high praise for the monumental structure.
Standing at 182 meters (597 feet), the Statue of Unity is the world’s tallest statue, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of India’s most influential leaders. Describing his experience at the iconic site, Aamir Khan said, “The first sight of the Statue of Unity was breathtaking. It’s such a beautiful place. I want to thank Modi ji for envisioning a grand way to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contribution.”
Reflecting on his personal connection to the day, Khan mentioned the significant role his great-grand uncle, Maulana Azad, played alongside Sardar Patel and Mahatma Gandhi in India’s independence struggle. “My great-grand uncle, Maulana Azad, who was a comrade of Sardar Patel, stood by him in the fight for freedom, working alongside Gandhi ji. For me, this is a very special day,” Khan shared.
He went on to ponder the conversations and struggles these leaders must have shared during their journey, adding, “I was thinking about the discussions they must have had and the joys and challenges they faced together. It was a very special day for me, and I really enjoyed it.”
Khan emphasized the Statue of Unity’s significance as both a cultural and modern symbol. “This is such a special place. India has many historic sites, each more incredible than the other, but this is a remarkable modern structure created for us. Modi ji laid its foundation, and it has turned into a marvelous and memorable creation for the entire country.”
Aamir also expressed his desire to bring his family to the monument, saying, “Next time, I would love to bring my children— Ira, Junaid, and Azad—so they can experience the beauty of this place as well.”
Inaugurated in 2018, the Statue of Unity stands as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India, who played a vital role in the country’s political integration. The statue faces the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Kevadia, Gujarat, serving as an enduring symbol of his legacy.
This Republic Day marks the 76th celebration of India’s constitution. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a message on social media, saying, “Happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a republic. We honor the great women and men who made our Constitution, ensuring our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity, and unity.”
President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by a 21-gun salute with 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest for the celebrations this year.
This year’s Republic Day also emphasizes “Jan Bhagidari” (people’s participation) as the nation commemorates 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution.