NEW DELHI, Nov 7: India celebrated the 150th anniversary of its national song, Vande Mataram, with a grand ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The year-long commemoration honours the song that inspired India’s freedom struggle and continues to symbolize national unity and pride.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi described Vande Mataram as “the voice of India’s awakening during the era of slavery,” highlighting its role in uniting millions during the independence movement. He called the song “not just a song — it is a mantra, an energy, a dream, and a resolution that connects us to our history and boosts our self-confidence.”

The Prime Minister also released a commemorative coin and postal stamp to mark the milestone and visited an exhibition themed around the national song. The event featured a mass singing of the full version of Vande Mataram at 9:50 a.m., synchronised across the country, as schools, cultural centres, and public spaces joined in unison.

Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena were among those present. Shekhawat emphasised that the nationwide celebrations aim to rekindle the revolutionary spirit of the song and connect citizens with its enduring message.

In a message on social media, President Droupadi Murmu described Vande Mataram as “a timeless symbol of national unity and patriotism,” urging every Indian to uphold its spirit by working for a prosperous and harmonious nation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed these sentiments, calling the song “the voice of India’s soul” that continues to inspire pride and sacrifice.

Across India, the 150th anniversary was marked with cultural programmes, school performances, and public singing events. Citizens were encouraged to participate with their families, while state assemblies and institutions hosted special commemorations to honour the song’s legacy.