This year marks a very special moment for India, as the national song “Vande Mataram” completes 150 years. To celebrate this historic milestone, the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi has launched a year-long programme in New Delhi, honouring the song’s long and inspiring journey.
“Vande Mataram,” written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, holds a deep place in India’s history. It was written in a mix of Sanskrit and Bengali and later became a powerful symbol of patriotism during the freedom movement. Even today, these two words fill Indians with pride, unity, and emotion.
The song first appeared in Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s famous novel Anandamath, published in 1882. But the poem itself was written earlier, around 1875, which is why we now celebrate 150 years of its creation. The tune was later composed by Yadunath Bhattacharya, giving the words a strong and memorable melody.
“Vande Mataram” grew in popularity when Rabindranath Tagore sang it at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta. From that moment, the song became a part of India’s growing national spirit. It was used as a slogan during the Swadeshi Movement on 7 August 1905, when people came together to oppose the partition of Bengal. The cry of “Vande Mataram” echoed in protests, marches, and public meetings, inspiring thousands of freedom fighters.
In 1907, freedom fighter Madam Bhikaji Cama proudly displayed the Indian tricolour in Stuttgart, Germany, with the words Vande Mataram written on it. This showed the world India’s desire for freedom.
After independence, on 24 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted “Vande Mataram” as the National Song of India. It was given a status equal to the National Anthem, though it is not compulsory to sing it.
As the song completes 150 years, the celebrations remind us of its powerful message: love, respect, and devotion to our motherland. Today, “Vande Mataram” continues to inspire millions, just like it inspired the heroes of our freedom struggle.
Headlyne app makes sure that as soon as a headline is created, it reaches straight to your phone without wasting any time! Stay curious and informed with us.
Download the Headlyne app today.
