Media Release

Mangaluru, Oct 31: To commemorate the 146th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' (National Unity day) was observed in Lourdes central school, Mangaluru on October 31.

The assembly was held for classes I to XII in the school ground. The assembly commenced with the prayer, prayer song and intentions where the students interceded for the unity, solidarity and fraternity among all the nations and people of the world.

A meaningful thought 'United we stand divided we fall' was presented by Deborah and K P Saanvi explained the significance of the day. A tribute to the Iron man was paid by the choir members by singing the Ekta song. The principal Fr Robert D'Souza in his message spoke about the achievements of Sardar Patel and urged the students to follow his footsteps.

Gavin from class 10 administered the Ekta pledge to the gathering. The most meaningful part of the assembly was witnessed when the students undertook the Unity March. The principal Fr Robert D'Souza waved the flag and inaugurated the march. The students covered a prescribed distance with a lot of zeal and vigour.

The assembly was concluded by wishing the birthday celebrants and singing the School Anthem. Adithi Acharya and Rishika M of class IX hosted the programme.
Later part of the day witnessed the extended celebration of Ekta Diwas. The students watched the digital exhibition 'Sardar Patel - Architect of Unification' in their respective classrooms. Each of the classrooms displayed colourful window charts regarding the Ekta Diwas.

This way October 1 was observed as Shreshth Bharat which was the dream of the first Prime Minister of India. This event became memorable to all the Lourdites.