(Source: ANI)
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the year-long nationwide commemoration portal to mark 150 years of the creation of India’s National Song, ‘Vande Mataram.’In his address, Prime Minister Modi described Vande Mataram as “a mantra, an energy, a dream, and a resolve.” He said the words embody devotion and worship to Maa Bharti, adding that they connect India’s past, present, and future with courage and confidence.”There is no resolve that cannot be achieved, no goal that we, the people of India, cannot attain,” the Prime Minister said in Hindi.Calling the mass singing of Vande Mataram “an experience beyond expression,” Modi said the harmony of millions of voices reflected the rhythm, emotion, and unity of the nation. “Such energy, such waves have stirred the heart,” he said, describing the moment as one that transcended words.The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the freedom fighters who devoted their lives to the ideals embodied in the song. “I bow to the millions of great souls who lived and died with the spirit of Vande Mataram in their hearts,” he stated.During the event, PM Modi also released a commemorative stamp and coin and launched the ‘Vande Mataram’ portal to mark the milestone. The event featured the collective singing of the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ across the country, uniting citizens from all walks of life. Modi himself participated in the mass rendition at the main venue.Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Delhi lieutenant governor Vinai Saxena, and Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta were among those present. The celebrations mark the formal launch of a year-long programme to honour the timeless composition that inspired India’s freedom struggle and continues to evoke patriotism and unity.PM Modi, in his address, also echoed the question of certain parts being omitted out of the full length national anthem written by ‘Bankim babu.’Written in Sanskrit by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1876, Vande Mataram was later included in his novel Anandamath (1882). The hymn personifies India as the motherland and became a rallying cry during the freedom struggle. Translated as “Hail to the Motherland,” it remains one of the most iconic expressions of patriotism in Indian history.