Is Vande Mataram the Timeless Symbol of Unity?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vande Mataram celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.
- The song is a symbol of national unity and patriotism.
- It was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the 19th century.
- Celebrations include cultural events and public gatherings across India.
- Both President Murmu and HM Shah have emphasized its enduring significance.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu on Friday celebrated the 150th anniversary of India's national song, Vande Mataram, calling it a timeless symbol of national unity and patriotism.
In a message shared on the social media platform 'X', the President remarked, "In the 19th century, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay created the eternal song Vande Mataram amidst the backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion against British colonial rule. Since the 1905 Swadeshi Movement, it has served as a beacon of inspiration for everyone. This song, which pays homage to Mother India, continues to represent the emotional consciousness and unity of our people and will do so indefinitely."
"Post-Independence, our nation embraced it as the national song. On this remarkable occasion of its 150-year milestone, let all citizens pledge to nurture Mother India with pure water, beautiful flowers, and to spread happiness, in the spirit of this song. Vande Mataram!" she concluded.
President Murmu emphasized that Vande Mataram not only galvanized Indians during the freedom struggle but also continues to evoke pride, commitment, and patriotic fervor.
Throughout India, the 150th anniversary is being celebrated with cultural events, educational activities, and public gatherings.
Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that 'Vande Mataram' is more than mere words; it embodies the "voice of India's soul" as the nation observes the 150th anniversary of this iconic song.
In a post on X, HM Shah noted that the song played a crucial role in uniting the country during its fight for independence and still inspires pride and patriotism among today’s youth.
"Vande Mataram is not just a set of words; it is the voice of India's soul. During the English rule, Vande Mataram unified the nation and strengthened our collective consciousness of freedom. It also instilled an unwavering dedication, pride, and spirit of sacrifice in revolutionaries for the motherland," he wrote in Hindi.
In Delhi, the Delhi Assembly is set to host a grand event, encouraging citizens to sing the full version of Vande Mataram with their families, further reinforcing its status as a unifying national symbol.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be present at a special ceremony in the national capital, showcasing the enduring reverence for the song.