India Observes 150th Anniversary of Vande Mataram in Parliament

India marked a significant cultural and historical milestone as Parliament observed the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram — a national song that has played a defining role in the country’s freedom movement. Special commemorations were held in both Houses, highlighting the song’s enduring legacy and its influence on India’s nationalist imagination.

Historical Background

Vande Mataram was originally composed in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and later included in his novel Anandamath (1882). During the struggle for independence, the song became a powerful symbol of collective resistance, inspiring movements such as Swadeshi (1905) and galvanising thousands of freedom fighters. Its lines invoking Bharat Mata resonated deeply with revolutionaries, poets, and national leaders alike.

Parliamentary Observance

During the anniversary event, members of Parliament reflected on the song’s legacy, its influence on India’s freedom struggle, and its role in shaping the emotional and cultural unity of the nation. Discussions and tributes underscored how Vande Mataram became more than just a composition — it transformed into a rallying call against colonial rule.

Parliamentarians also emphasised the need to preserve India’s literary, linguistic, and cultural heritage while ensuring future generations understand the historical context of national symbols.

Significance Today

The commemoration serves as a reminder of the song’s:

• Cultural Value: A timeless expression of devotion to the motherland.
• Historical Importance: A unifying force during the freedom struggle.
• Contemporary Relevance: Reinforcing shared identity and national pride.

It also highlights the role of Parliament in celebrating India’s cultural icons and ensuring that national heritage remains central to public consciousness.

Conclusion

Observing 150 years of Vande Mataram is not just a ceremonial moment — it represents India’s respect for its cultural roots, freedom struggle, and collective memory. The tribute in Parliament reaffirms the song’s place as a lasting symbol of unity, patriotism, and national identity.