India Honors 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’ with Nationwide Celebrations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled nationwide programmes to celebrate the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram', India's national song, starting November 7, 2022. The song, composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875, has a rich history that reflects India's civilisational spirit and cultural unity.
Originally written in 1875 as part of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel 'Anandamath', 'Vande Mataram' was inspired by ancient texts like the Atharva Veda and Devi Mahatmya. It was later set to melody by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896, giving it a voice that has echoed through generations.
The song's power was evident during the partition of Bengal in 1905. Despite being banned by the British, 'Vande Mataram' was defiantly sung by thousands in Barisal, demonstrating its ability to unite and inspire. Mahatma Gandhi himself acknowledged its 'magical power to stir even the most dormant blood'.
The spirit of 'Vande Mataram' has been a driving force in various movements and revolutions, becoming the collective voice of India's soul. It was a proclamation of cultural nationalism, reminding Indians of their shared culture and values. This was evident in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's unification of India, which was the living embodiment of the song's spirit.
As India celebrates 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', the nationwide programmes aim to honour the song's composer, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and its enduring impact on India's cultural and political landscape. The celebrations serve as a reminder of India's civilisational self-belief and a call to transform that spirit into action.
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