New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long celebration of 150 years of India’s National Song, Vande Mataram. He highlighted that the song strengthens national pride and instills confidence among citizens. Moreover, Modi emphasized that Vande Mataram continues to inspire young and old alike, uniting generations through its powerful message of patriotism and devotion to the nation.
November 7, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long celebration of 150 years of India’s national song, Vande Mataram. To mark the occasion, he released a commemorative coin and postal stamp dedicated to the iconic composition. Additionally, he visited an exhibition themed around Vande Mataram.
The Prime Minister was joined by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena. The programme officially launched nationwide celebrations that will continue until November 7, 2026. Citizens across India will participate in various cultural events and programmes.
Vande Mataram, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, inspired India’s freedom struggle. The song invokes the Motherland as a symbol of strength, unity, and prosperity. Over time, it became an enduring emblem of devotion to India and a source of national pride and energy.
Prime Minister Modi addressed the gathering, saying, “Millions of people connect with us through Vande Mataram today. November 7 is a historic day. This celebration will energize citizens and inspire new aspirations. Vande Mataram is not only a song but a mantra, an energy, and a resolution. It strengthens our confidence and connects us with history.”
He added, “The experience of mass singing of Vande Mataram is beyond words. This 150-year celebration will bring fresh enthusiasm. Today, we honor this legacy with a special coin and stamp. I also pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Every patriotic song expresses emotion, but Vande Mataram centralizes ‘Bharat’ and ‘Maa Bharati’.”
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat highlighted the significance of mass singing across the country. He said, “This song shaped the independence movement. Many martyrs might have uttered ‘Vande Mataram’ as their last words. Today, we launch a digital portal for citizens to share their own renditions. It will further connect people with our national heritage and inspire patriotism.”
The celebration included a synchronized mass singing of Vande Mataram at 9:50 a.m. across public spaces nationwide. Citizens joined enthusiastically, demonstrating unity and devotion. The programme in Delhi set the tone for similar events in states and towns, linking local communities to the historic anniversary.
Historically, Vande Mataram first appeared in the literary journal Bangadarshan, as part of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s novel Anandamath. Composed during Akshaya Navami November 7, 1875, it captured India’s awakening spirit. Its poetic words inspired unity, self-respect, and devotion to the motherland, transcending regional and linguistic boundaries.
Sri Aurobindo, in 1907, noted that Bankim had written Vande Mataram 32 years earlier. Initially, few recognized its importance. However, during Bengal’s awakening, people sang it passionately. The song then became a symbol of India’s national awakening and the collective aspiration for independence.
Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, a renowned novelist, poet, and essayist, shaped modern Bengali prose. He also articulated the idea of a unified, spiritually vibrant India. His writings reflected intellectual engagement with culture, nationhood, and the emerging nationalist movement, leaving a lasting impact on literature and patriotism.
Vande Mataram gained widespread popularity during the Swadeshi and anti-partition movements. It unified people across India and served as a motivational anthem. Furthermore, it expressed the emotional bond between citizens and their homeland. Its influence continues today in educational, cultural, and national celebrations.
In conclusion, the 150-year celebration of Vande Mataram honors India’s freedom struggle and national spirit. The coin, stamp, and digital initiatives ensure its legacy reaches every citizen. By inspiring unity, devotion, and pride, Vande Mataram continues to connect generations and strengthen the country’s collective identity.