Is 'Vande Mataram' the Soul of India? CM Rekha Gupta Thinks So!
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New Delhi, Jan 9 (NationPress) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta asserted in the State Assembly on Friday that 'Vande Mataram' transcends being just a song; it embodies the very essence of India.
In her address marking the 150th anniversary of this national anthem, she expressed that the song forges a deep connection among citizens, instilling a sense of duty, unity, and reverence towards the motherland.
Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the Chief Minister remarked that this composition, created nearly 150 years ago, served as a powerful symbol of conscience during India's struggle for independence.
She emphasized that the song honors the land, nature, culture, and civilization of India, reminding us that its soil nurtures not just food but also vital values and cultural heritage.
During her address in the Assembly, Chief Minister Gupta highlighted the importance of discussing this historic national song, especially on its 150th anniversary.
She reflected on the 100th anniversary of Vande Mataram, noting that the nation was then experiencing the Emergency, a period during which the national anthem did not receive the recognition it rightfully deserved.
She labeled this as an unfortunate chapter in the narrative of Indian democracy.
The Chief Minister mentioned that today, under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, the nation is advancing with the philosophy of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi' (growth alongside heritage).
India is consistently reaching new milestones in its development while simultaneously safeguarding its cultural and historical legacies, she added.
She pointed out that the country is gradually overcoming a colonial mindset and is progressing towards becoming a self-sufficient and prosperous nation, with the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' prominently before us.
The Chief Minister elaborated that this song was originally penned by the eminent author and nationalist thinker Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875 and was later featured in the novel 'Anandamath' in 1882.
She clarified that the song is not tied to any religion, sect, class, or political ideology, but rather represents the unbreakable bond between the motherland and her children.
Chief Minister Gupta stated that Vande Mataram signifies national unity that transcends politics.
She lamented that some individuals attempt to politicize it, whereas every line of the song is infused solely with admiration for Bharat Mata.
She asserted that the song extols the beauty of India's rivers, mountains, fields, and prosperity, weaving the citizens of the country into a single fabric.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister remarked that the nation is currently engaged in an ideological battle that cannot be won through weapons, but rather through a heightened sense of national consciousness.