New Delhi, Dec 9 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Tuesday that Vande Mataram significantly contributed to the "awakening of a powerful national consciousness" during India's freedom movement, which the British and their followers could not suppress.

During a discussion commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram in the Rajya Sabha, Shah remarked, "During the era of colonial rule, numerous temples, universities, cultural centers, agricultural practices, educational systems, and libraries were either destroyed or dismantled. However, despite the physical destruction of these institutions, the essence of our culture and its spirit remained intact within our people. Nevertheless, there was a pressing need to rekindle that spirit, to reorganize and fortify it."

"It was during such tumultuous times that Bankim Babu created Vande Mataram. The message of this song resonated across the nation, reaching even the remote islands of Andaman and Nicobar. Neither the British nor those who adopted British ways could halt its spread. Vande Mataram was crucial in stirring a formidable national consciousness," he further elaborated.

The Home Minister emphasized that through discussing Vande Mataram, the future generations will grasp the national song's "impact on the freedom struggle, the patriotism encapsulated in its verses, and the spirit of commitment to our nation and its heritage."

"Let this understanding motivate them to contribute to shaping a prosperous future for our great India," he expressed.

Shah added that the dialogue around Vande Mataram was vital during the freedom struggle and continues to be significant for the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Criticizing the Opposition, he noted, "Some members questioned why discussions on Vande Mataram are necessary. The importance of discussing Vande Mataram, and the dedication it demands, was crucial then; it is essential now, and will always hold significance for the realization of the great India we envision for 2047."

In highlighting the historical context of Vande Mataram, Shah stated, "For centuries, our land faced invasions and attempts to distort our culture and history. During British rule, there were efforts to impose a foreign civilization and culture upon us."

"In such challenging times, Bankim Chandra Babu penned Vande Mataram. His work subtly depicted our ancient civilization, cultural nationalism, and the tradition of venerating the nation as a mother. This concept of honoring the nation as a mother has long been a part of our legacy and was beautifully articulated in his writing," he continued.

He further noted that the chant of Vande Mataram became a "battle cry to liberate Maa Bharti from the shackles of oppression."

"It turned into the clarion call for Independence, serving as a profound source of motivation during the freedom struggle. For those martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice, Vande Mataram instilled in them the determination to be reborn in India and once again offer their lives for Maa Bharti. This ancient nation, throughout the ages, drew inspiration from Vande Mataram to progress along the path of its cultural heritage. Many found that inspiration in this very song," he concluded.