New Delhi, Oct. 26 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India's first Union Home Minister, describing him as one of the greatest "luminaries" of modern times, saying that the latter made unparalleled efforts for the nation's unity and integrity.

Speaking on the 127th episode of his radio programme Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said, "Sardar Patel was one of the nation's greatest figures in modern times. His towering personality embodied many qualities. He was an exceptionally bright student, excelling in his studies both in India and Britain. He also became one of the most successful lawyers of his time."

Ahead of the 150th birth anniversary of 'Iron Man of India', PM Modi remembered Patel's achiev...