Against 'faint memories' and 'rumours' quoted by Union Minister S Jaishankar to defame Jawaharlal Nehru, there exist actual letters, written by the first prime minister, asking Patel to join India’s first Cabinet.

Nehru had even called Patel the 'strongest pillar of that Cabinet.' While actual letterswritten by Patel, confirming that he will join the Cabinet, also underline the incredibly enduring relationship he shared with Nehru.