Munish Sood
MANDI:
As the nation marks 150 years of the iconic national song Vande Mataram, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised grand singing events across all four parliamentary constituencies of Himachal Pradesh on Friday (November 7, 2025).
The celebrations, — art of a year-long nationwide initiative, witnessed overwhelming participation, symbolising national pride and unity.
The central event for the Shimla parliamentary constituency was held at Hotel Woodville Palace in the state capital, where Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, along with Member of Parliament and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur, took part in the collective rendition of Vande Mataram. MP Suresh Kashyap was also present during the program.
Speaking on the occasion, Jai Ram Thakur emphasized that Vande Mataram is “not merely a song, but the living spirit of India — an eternal expression of patriotism that has inspired generations.” Anurag Thakur echoed similar sentiments, stating that the 150th anniversary serves as a reminder of the song’s role in awakening the consciousness of a nation striving for freedom.
A Historic Milestone for India’s National Song
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875, Vande Mataram became the rallying cry of India’s independence movement. Its powerful verses first appeared in the novel Anandamath and later inspired revolutionaries and reformers alike. On January 24, 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India officially adopted it as the National Song of the Republic, recognizing its deep emotional and cultural resonance.
To commemorate the 150th year of its creation, the Government of India and the BJP have launched a series of public events, including mass singing ceremonies, exhibitions, and educational programs, that will continue for one year across the country.
Himachal Echoes the Spirit of the Nation
In Himachal Pradesh, simultaneous singing events were organized in all four parliamentary constituencies — Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, and Hamirpur. Participants, including senior leaders, party workers, students, and citizens, joined in full voice to sing the complete version of Vande Mataram.
The celebrations were marked by patriotic fervor and cultural pride. Traditional music, national flags, and tricolor decorations created an atmosphere of devotion and unity.
“Every Indian should feel proud that 150 years later, the essence of Vande Mataram still binds us together as one nation, one emotion, and one destiny,” said a party spokesperson, adding that similar events were being held in every state to revive the song’s message of motherland worship and national consciousness.
Beyond a Song — The Soul of the Nation
Vande Mataram continues to symbolize the eternal bond between citizens and their motherland. Its words — “Mother, I bow to thee” — transcend regions, religions, and generations, reminding every Indian of their shared heritage.
As the year-long nationwide celebrations begin, the BJP has announced plans to take the message of Vande Mataram to schools, colleges, and villages, encouraging youth to learn about the song’s history and spirit. The initiative aims to strengthen the values of unity, gratitude, and respect for the motherland among future generations.
A National Chorus of Patriotism
From the streets of Shimla to the hills of Kangra, from the valleys of Mandi to the plains of Hamirpur — today, the voices of thousands merged into one harmonious chorus: Vande Mataram.
A song born 150 years ago in Bengal once again united the nation, reminding India of its timeless ideals — devotion, strength, and unity.
