Commemorating the 150th Anniversary of National Song ‘VANDE MATARAM’ -Puri
Jaswant Singh Puri/ November 7,2025
Vande Mataram is a song that was adopted as the National Song of the Republic of India in 1950. It was composed lyrically by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875 and became a part of his Bengali novel ‘Anandmath’. Even Honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi said in his 127th episode ‘Mann Ki Baat’ that ‘On November 7, we will be entering the 150th year of the celebration of Vande Mataram’. Modi recalled that the iconic song was first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896 and highlighted its role in fostering patriotism and nation building. Vande Mataram ignites boundless emotion and pride in every Indian’s heart.
Vande Mataram was a slogan and a song that inspired Indians to free India from the clutches of the British colonial rule who had established themselves as the supreme force. It continues to awaken patriotism and unity among Indians. It makes us experience maternal affection of Ma Bharati. ‘Vande Mataram’ is the song that lends tangible voice form to that abstract feeling. Many events are being organised in the country.
Vande Mataram means “I praise thee, Mother,” which is a reminder of our rich cultural heritage and the sacrifices of our forefathers in making India a free nation. The song was translated into many languages. Sri Aurobindo translated it into English in 1909.
The celebration of this day is not merely a remembrance of history but a reawakening of patriotism. As the words ‘Sujalam, Suphalam, Malayajsheetlam’ echo in the sublime air, they carry the fragrance of the land and the divine essence of India’s being. When the song was first sung in the Indian National Congress Session of 1896 in Kolkata by Rabindranath Tagore, the atmosphere was electrifying, which was felt in every pulse and every breath of the motherland.
Vande Mataram binds India’s diverse languages, faiths and traditions. The song became a unifying force that transcended caste, creed and religion. Thus Vande Mataram is not just a song but a hymn that binds every Indian heart in love, devotion and pride.
NOTE: The views expressed by the writer/ author are personal.
