Parliament witnessed a special debate to mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the discussion in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The debate was allotted a total of 10 hours in the Lower House.
Opposition members, including Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi and MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, also spoke on Vande Mataram.
Prime Minister Modi Speaks
- Prime Minister Modi pointed out the historical significance of the song. He said that the debate reflects the commitment of the House and, if used properly, can guide future generations. Modi mentioned that India is also celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel and Birsa Munda.
- He told the members that Vande Mataram was written when India was under foreign rule. During its first 100 years, the song’s voice faced restrictions. In 1947, the song became a symbol of India’s freedom. Modi added that the debate had no distinction between ruling and opposition parties.
History of Vande Mataram
- The song was first written by Bankimchandra Chatterjee in 1875. He later included it in his novel Anandmath.
- Modi said Vande Mataram is not a mere slogan of political freedom. Since the Vedic Age, it is an oft-repeated concept among Indians that Earth is mother and humans are her children.
Cultural Significance
The Prime Minister pointed out that the song exudes thousands of years of Indian culture and the spirit of independence. During British rule, Indians faced self-doubt. Chatterjee wrote Vande Mataram to inspire hope and confidence among Indians. Modi said the song conveyed that the struggle was not just for land or power, but for freedom and cultural revival.
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