150 Years of Vande Mataram: PM Modi Unveils Special Coins And Stamps To Mark The Iconic Song's Legacy

Vandemataram Turns 150: To commemorate 150 years of India's national song, Vandemataram, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched the special coin and stamps to honour the marvel created by Bankimchandra Chatterji. The coin and stamps were launched in Delhi by the PM to begin a year-long celebration of Vande Mataram's glorious 150 years.

The event took place the Indira Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. PM Modi expressed his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Tomorrow, 7th November, is a momentous day for every Indian. We celebrate 150 glorious years of Vande Mataram, a stirring call that has inspired generations and ignited an undying spirit of patriotism across our nation." His message underscores the enduring influence of the song on India's national identity.

What Historic 'Vande Mataram' Songs Mean To India?

From every school assembly to patriotic events, the jubilant song fills Indias' viens with energy, pride and patriotism. The song which was created as a symbol of rebel and opposition to the British, now stands one of the key component of India's identity.

Vande Mataram 150 Celebration

The nationwide celebrations will feature large-scale performances of Vande Mataram in public spaces, schools, and institutions. These events aim to symbolise India's unity and pride. The song was penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, a renowned Bengali writer and poet. It first appeared in his 1882 novel Anandamath.

Set against the backdrop of the 18th-century Sannyasi Rebellion, Vande Mataram became a rallying cry for freedom fighters during India's struggle for independence. Its powerful message resonated through protests and gatherings, inspiring many to join the fight for freedom.

Rabindranath Tagore's First Public Rendition of Vande Mataram

Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore gave the first public rendition of Vande Mataram in 1896 at the Indian National Congress session in Kolkata. This performance marked a pivotal moment in the song's history, further cementing its role as an anthem of resistance and hope during colonial rule.

The Constituent Assembly declared Vande Mataram as India's National Song on January 24, 1950. Dr Rajendra Prasad, then President of the Assembly, emphasised that it would hold equal honour alongside Jana Gana Mana, India's National Anthem.

How You Can Be Part of Vande Mataram's year-long celebration?

Indian citizens can join mass recital and public gatherings dedicated to the celebration of the legacy of the song. A mass recital has been organised on November 7. The event aims to unite citizens from diverse backgrounds in paying homage to their motherland. This collective tribute reflects the enduring legacy of Vande Mataram as a symbol of national pride and unity.

The year-long commemoration seeks to remind Indians of their shared history and cultural heritage. Through these celebrations, organisers hope to inspire future generations with stories of courage and resilience embodied by this iconic song.