Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to actively participate in celebrating 150 years of India’s national song “Vande Mataram” on November 7. Speaking on the 127th episode of his Mann Ki Baat radio show, Modi recalled that the iconic song was first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896 and highlighted its role in patriotism.
The prime minister said the song evokes “immense emotions and a deep sense of pride in the hearts of every Indian”, adding that it continues to unite the nation and inspire devotion to the country.
“‘Vande Mataram’ stirs boundless emotions and pride in the heart of every Indian. #MannKiBaat,” he tweeted.
Modi described the song as “a timeless expression of patriotism and unity that continues to inspire generations of Indians. Reflecting on its legacy, he said: “India’s national song ‘Vande Mataram’. A song whose first word sends a wave of emotions into our hearts. ‘VandeMataram’ – this single word contains so much emotion, so much energy. Simply put, it makes us experience the motherly affection of MaBharati.”
He emphasized that singing “Vande Mataram” has the power to unite 140 million Indians, especially in times of trouble. “If there is a moment of difficulty, singing ‘Vande Mataram’ will fill 140 million Indians with the energy of unity. Patriotism… love for Ma Bharati… if it is an emotion beyond words, then ‘VandeMataram’ is a song that gives tangible voice to this abstract feeling,” Modi said.
A tribute to the composer
The prime minister also paid tribute to Banki Chandra Chattopadhyay, who composed the song in the 19th century to awaken national pride in an India weakened by colonial rule.
“It was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay to breathe new life into an India weakened by centuries of slavery. ‘Vande Mataram’ may have been written in the 19th century, but its spirit is linked to the immortal consciousness of India that is thousands of years old…” he added.
Modi urged citizens to participate in the planned events and contribute to honor the legacy and enduring spirit of Vande Mataram.
“The Name of the Tree Mother”
During the 127th episode of Mann Ki Baat, he also urged citizens to adopt sustainable practices and join the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ tree planting campaign, highlighting local innovation and community-led environmental efforts across the country.
The Prime Minister lauded several local initiatives that combine innovation with environmental protection, including a unique model of waste management in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh.
“In Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh, Garbage Cafes are being run. They are cafes where you get a full meal in exchange for plastic waste. If someone brings more than 1 kilogram of plastic, they get lunch or dinner and instead of 0.5 kilogram of plastic, they get breakfast. These cafes are run by the Ambikapur Municipal Corporation,” PM Modi said, praising the initiative for turning waste into nutrition. cleanliness promotion.
