New Delhi, Oct 31 : People from different walks of life today remembered the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, and offered tributes on his 132nd birth anniversary.

Various organisations commemorated Patel for his important role in freedom struggle across the country today.

Born on October 31, 1875, Patel was the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India.  Earlier, he was a political and social leader who played a major role in the country's struggle for independence and guided its integration into a united, independent nation.

In India and across the world, he was often addressed as Sardar, which means Chief in many languages of India.

Raised in the countryside of Gujarat and largely self-educated, Vallabhbhai Patel was employed in successful practice as a lawyer when he was first inspired by the work and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.

Patel subsequently organised the peasants of Kheda, Borsad, and Bardoli in Gujarat in non-violent civil disobedience against oppressive policies imposed by the British Raj; in this role, he became one of the most influential leaders in Gujarat. He rose to the leadership of the Indian National Congress and was at the forefront of rebellions and political events, organising the party for elections in 1934 and 1937, and promoting the Quit India movement.

As a minister, Patel organised relief for refugees in Punjab and Delhi, and led efforts to restore peace across the nation. He took charge of the task to forge a united India from the 565 semi-autonomous princely states and British-era colonial provinces. Using frank diplomacy backed with the option (and the use) of military action, Patel's leadership enabled the accession of almost every princely state. (ANI)