Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate today the year-long nationwide commemoration of 150 years of the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister will also release a commemorative stamp and coin, marking the formal launch of celebrations that will continue till November 7, 2026.
The event will begin with the mass singing of the full version of “Vande Mataram” at 9:50 a.m. across public spaces in coordination with the main programme in Delhi.
On Thursday, PM Modi said in a post on X, “Tomorrow, 7th November, is a momentous day for every Indian. We celebrate 150 glorious years of Vande Mataram, a stirring call that has inspired generations and ignited an undying spirit of patriotism across our nation. To mark this occasion, I will join a programme in Delhi at 9:30 AM. A commemorative stamp and coin will also be released. The highlight of the programme would be a mass recital of Vande Mataram!”
In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described “Vande Mataram” as “the voice of India’s soul.”
He said, “‘Vande Mataram’ is not merely a collection of words; it is the voice of India’s soul. Against the English regime, it united the nation, strengthened the consciousness of freedom, and awakened an unwavering spirit of dedication and sacrifice for the motherland.”
Shah added that the song continues to “ignite the eternal flame of nationalism in the hearts of the people”, urging citizens to sing the full version with their families to pass its spirit on to future generations.
The year 2025 marks 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee on Akshaya Navami, November 7, 1875. The song first appeared in the literary journal Bangadarshan as part of Chatterjee’s iconic novel Anandamath.
Invoking the Motherland as the embodiment of strength, prosperity, and divinity, the song gave poetic expression to India’s awakening spirit of unity and self-respect. During the freedom struggle, “Vande Mataram” became an enduring symbol of the nation’s devotion and resolve for independence.
The Delhi Legislative Assembly will also organise a special programme on Friday to mark the 150th anniversary. Speaker Vijender Gupta will unveil a commemorative plaque to celebrate the milestone.
The event will feature a cultural performance by artists from the Sahitya Kala Parishad, highlighting the spirit of patriotism and unity embodied in “Vande Mataram.” In the evening, the Assembly building will be illuminated in the Tricolour to mark the celebration.
“‘Vande Mataram’ is not merely a song – it is the soul of India’s freedom movement and a timeless ode to our motherland,” Speaker Gupta said. “By commemorating this historic milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to the ideals and spirit that shaped our nation.”
As part of the year-long celebrations, programmes reflecting the historical, cultural, and musical heritage of “Vande Mataram” will be held across India. The initiative aims to rekindle the patriotic fervour that the song has evoked for a century and a half, reaffirming its message of unity and devotion to the motherland.
(With agency inputs)