sardar vallabhbhai patel (31 october 1875 — 15 december 1950) was a lawyer and influential political leader in the indian independence movement. after independence, he played an important role in the integration of over 500 princely states into the indian union. he was deeply influenced by gandhi’s ideology and principles, having worked very closely with the leader. despite being the choice of the people, on the request of mahatma gandhi, sardar patel stepped down from the candidacy of congress president, which ultimately turned out to be the election to choose the first prime minister of independent india. he was the first home minister of independent india and his uncompromising efforts towards consolidation of the country earned him the title "iron man of india".