India Marks 150th Anniversary of Vande Mataram
India celebrated a historic cultural milestone by marking the 150th anniversary of its national song, “Vande Mataram.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a year-long commemoration program on November 7, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. The event began with a large mass singing ceremony in which thousands of participants joined together to sing the iconic verses that once inspired India’s freedom fighters.
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875 and included in his novel “Anandamath,” “Vande Mataram” became a symbol of courage and unity during the struggle for independence. In 1950, the Constituent Assembly officially adopted the first two stanzas as the national song of India. Since then, it has continued to hold emotional and patriotic significance for millions.
During the inaugural ceremony, PM Modi released a commemorative postal stamp and a special ₹150 coin dedicated to the song’s 150-year legacy. He also launched a new citizen engagement portal that allows people across the country to participate in online activities, quizzes, and digital events related to the celebration. The platform aims to educate youth about the song’s history and inspire a deeper connection with India’s cultural identity.
The celebration included participation from leaders across various political parties. Home Minister Amit Shah, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and several chief ministers shared messages honoring the timeless value of “Vande Mataram.” Their statements highlighted how the song continues to unite Indians, regardless of language, region, or political belief.
States such as Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Gujarat organized special events, including school programs, cultural performances, discussions, and exhibitions showcasing the evolution of the national song. Many institutions held group recitations to recreate the patriotic spirit that the song once ignited during the freedom movement.
Scholars and historians also participated in panel discussions about whether India should officially adopt the full version of “Vande Mataram.” While opinions varied, these discussions reflected the deep cultural and historical impact the song has had over the past century and a half.
Throughout the day, social media platforms overflowed with tributes, renditions, and creative posts from citizens. Schools, colleges, and public institutions shared videos of students singing the song together, symbolizing unity and pride.
As India begins its year-long celebration, the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram stands as a reminder of the country’s shared heritage. The government plans to organise multiple events in the coming months to keep the patriotic spirit alive and ensure that the message of Vande Mataram continues to inspire future generations.
