President Droupadi Murmu on Friday commemorated the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, describing it as a timeless symbol of national unity and patriotism.
In a post on X, the President said, “In the nineteenth century, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay composed the immortal song Vande Mataram against the backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion against British rule. Since the time of the 1905 Swadeshi Movement, it has served as a source of inspiration for one and all. This song of reverence to Mother India has remained a proclamation of the emotional consciousness and unity of our countrymen and will continue to be so.”
“After Independence, the country reverently adopted it as the national song. On this glorious occasion marking 150 years of this song, let us all resolve to keep Mother India endowed with pure water, blooming flowers, and enduring happiness, in accordance with the spirit of this song. Vande Mataram!,” she added.
President Murmu highlighted that Vande Mataram not only inspired countless Indians during the freedom struggle but continues to serve as a source of pride, dedication, and patriotic spirit even today.
Across the country, the 150th anniversary is being celebrated through cultural programmes, school events, and public commemorations, honouring the enduring legacy of the song that united India’s freedom fighters under one emotional banner.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long commemoration of the National Song “Vande Mataram” at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, marking the formal launch of celebrations that will continue till November 7, 2026. He also released a Commemorative Stamp and Coin on the occasion.
Earlier in the day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Vande Mataram as “the voice of India’s soul”, recalling its historic role in uniting the nation during the struggle for independence.
In a post on X, Shah said, “Vande Mataram is not merely a collection of words; it is the voice of India’s soul. Against the British regime, it united the nation, strengthened the consciousness of freedom, and awakened in revolutionaries an unwavering dedication, pride, and spirit of sacrifice for the motherland.”
He added that the song continues to ignite the eternal flame of nationalism among the youth and remains a symbol of unity and inspiration for generations.
In Delhi, the Legislative Assembly will organise a special programme to mark the milestone, encouraging citizens across the capital to sing the full version of Vande Mataram with their families – reaffirming its enduring place as a unifying national symbol.
(IANS)