Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to inaugurate the year-long commemoration of 150 years of the national song "Vande Mataram" on 7th November 2025

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate a year-long commemoration of 150 years of the national song "Vande Mataram" on November 7, 2025. This event is significant for UPSC aspirants as it highlights the historical and cultural importance of the song, relevant for GS Paper 1 (Indian Heritage and Culture). Last Updated: 2025-11-07

Key Facts About "Vande Mataram"

• Vande Mataram was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and first published in 1875.
• Set to music by Rabindranath Tagore, it symbolizes India's cultural identity.
• Adopted as India's National Song in 1937 by the Congress Working Committee.
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad announced its equal honor alongside the National Anthem in 1950.
• It served as a battle cry for nationalism against colonial rule.
• First sung at an Indian National Congress session in 1896.
• Promoted by the Bande Mataram Sampradaya in 1905.
• The English daily Bande Mataram was launched in 1906.
• Used as a political slogan during the anti-partition movement in 1905.
• Inspired student protests in Gulbarga after being banned in 1938.
• Madam Bhikaji Cama raised the tricolor flag with its words in 1907.
• Commemorative events will start at 10:00 AM on November 7, 2025.
• Mass singing of the full version will occur across public spaces.
• The event will be attended by Prime Minister Modi.
• A dedicated campaign website has been launched by the Ministry of Culture.
• Encouraging public participation to honor the national song.

India's Cultural Heritage and National Identity

The commemoration of "Vande Mataram" underscores its role in India's cultural and national identity. As a symbol of unity and resistance during the freedom struggle, the song's legacy continues to inspire national pride. India's cultural exports, including such historical songs, contribute to its soft power on the global stage, enhancing its international cultural rankings.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Ministry of Culture: Launched a campaign website to promote the commemoration.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Indian Heritage and Culture - "Vande Mataram" as a cultural symbol.
• Prelims: Questions on the history and significance of "Vande Mataram".
• Mains: Analytical themes on cultural nationalism and identity.
• Essay Paper: Topics on national symbols and their impact on unity.

FAQ Section

• What is "Vande Mataram"? "Vande Mataram" is a national song of India, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, symbolizing the nation's cultural identity and unity.
• Why is "Vande Mataram" important? The song played a crucial role in India's freedom movement, serving as a rallying cry for independence and uniting diverse communities under a common cause.
• What are the key features of the 150-year commemoration? The commemoration includes mass singing events, a campaign by the Ministry of Culture, and widespread public participation, starting on November 7, 2025.