India proud of its unity in diversity: Modi

India has imbibed a diversity of faiths, cultures and traditions and has tied them in one thread of unity, which it can be truly proud of, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Tuesday.

"Some humans are trying to expand their faith by pushing the world into violence. In such times India can proudly say it is the nation that has tied a variety of cultures, traditions and faiths in one thread," Modi said before flagging off the 'Run for Unity' here.

The event was organised by the government to commemorate Sardar Patel's 142nd birth anniversary.

"This is our legacy, this is our strength and the way to our bright future," he added while stressing that it was important to celebrate India's unity in diversity for nation building.

"Different languages and dialects, different dressing styles, different food habits, different faiths, but still it is in our ethos to be united for the nation," Modi said.

He said that as generations pass, some of the historical incidents are forgotten. Therefore it is important in a country like India to keep reiterating its mantra of unity and to constantly look for ways to strengthen the tradition of unity in diversity.

"It is the responsibility of 125 crore Indians to preserve the unity and integrity of the nation given to us by Sardar Patel. The posterity must be aware of how he unified India (after Independence). And that is why we are observing Sardar saheb's birth anniversary today," Modi said.

Modi said that every Indian should make a resolve to contribute towards the welfare of society, to do something that enhances the prestige of the nation, and try to fulfil it by 2022 when India would complete 75 years of Independence.

Noted sportspersons Suresh Raina, Sardar Singh, Karnam Malleshwari and Deepa Karmakar were also present on the occasion.

--IANS

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