India’s revered national song, ‘Vande Mataram,’ has reached its 150th anniversary, a milestone marked by national pride and a special address by the Prime Minister. He eloquently described the song as more than just lyrics, calling it a ‘mantra, energy, dream, and resolve.’ This powerful composition, he emphasized, embodies deep devotion and worship for the motherland, continuing to ignite patriotism across generations.
The Prime Minister highlighted how the words ‘Vande Mataram’ resonate as a driving force, inspiring confidence in the present and instilling the courage to achieve any goal. He quoted, ‘Aisa koi sankalp nahi, jiski siddhi na ho sake. Aisa koi lakshya nahi, jo hum bharatwasi paa na sakein,’ underscoring the song’s power to motivate the nation.
He further elaborated on the profound experience of collective singing, describing it as ‘beyond expression.’ The unity of voices, rhythm, and emotion in singing ‘Vande Mataram’ creates an unparalleled wave of energy that stirs the heart. This harmony, he noted, fills participants with a shared thrill and a pulsating sense of national spirit.
November 7th was declared a ‘historic day’ as the nation commenced a year-long commemoration of this significant anniversary. The Prime Minister extended greetings to all citizens, stating that this milestone will infuse millions with renewed energy. He also paid a solemn tribute to the countless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives to the ideals represented by the song.
The year-long celebrations officially began with a grand event where the Prime Minister inaugurated the commemoration. During the ceremony, he released a commemorative stamp and coin, and launched a dedicated portal for the 150th anniversary. The event featured a mass singing of the complete ‘Vande Mataram,’ with citizens from all walks of life participating both at the main venue and across public spaces nationwide. Dignitaries including Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Saxena, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta were in attendance.
The ‘Vande Mataram’ composition, originally a Sanskrit poem by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1876 and later featured in his novel ‘Anandamath,’ has long symbolized Indian nationalism. Its rendition as a hymn to the motherland, personifying India as a goddess, has consistently evoked patriotism and unity, playing a crucial role in the country’s freedom movement.