PM Modi Calls for Celebration of 150th Year of ‘Vande Mataram’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to make the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ memorable. Speaking during his monthly radio address, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi described the song as a vibrant representation of India.

In his 30-minute speech, the Prime Minister announced that numerous programmes will celebrate the contributions of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the song’s writer, and Rabindranath Tagore, who first performed it in 1896. Modi’s call to action aims to inspire citizens to carry forward the values embedded in the national song.

Modi highlighted several initiatives led by citizens across the nation aimed at environmental conservation. He praised grassroots efforts such as the revival of mangroves in Gujarat, the unique concept of Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and the restoration of lakes in Bengaluru.

Encouraging a national spirit, Modi also applauded paramilitary forces including the BSF and CRPF for incorporating Indian dog breeds into their operations. He noted a recent achievement where a Mudhol Hound excelled in an international competition, showcasing the potential of indigenous breeds.

“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” Modi remarked.

As preparations for India’s unity parade gather momentum, Modi announced that some of these native dog breeds will participate in celebrations around Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s upcoming birth anniversary on October 31 in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.

The Prime Minister also lauded the coffee cultivation efforts by farmers in Koraput, Odisha, emphasizing their substantial impact on local livelihoods and women’s empowerment.

“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” Modi noted, highlighting the significance of native agricultural practices.

In reflecting on the influence of modern society, the Prime Minister remarked on the revival of Sanskrit within the realm of social media and digital culture. He cited the innovative efforts of Yash Salunke, a young creator who uses engaging formats to teach Sanskrit, even while playing cricket.

Taking a moment to extend greetings for Chhath Puja, Modi characterized this festival as a blend of devotion, affection, and tradition, reaffirming its role in India’s social unity.

“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he said, encouraging people to participate in the festival.

Addressing security operations, Modi spoke about Operation Sindoor, a campaign that instills pride across various regions, especially those impacted by Maoist violence.

“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” Modi remarked, celebrating the resilience of these communities.

The Prime Minister recognized notable tribal heroes such as Komaram Bheem, acknowledging their courageous stands against oppression, especially during struggles against the Nizam of Hyderabad.

In conjunction with this, he paid homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Modi noted that his birth anniversary, known as Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas, celebrates on November 15. He urged the nation to learn about the inspirational legacies within tribal communities.

“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, there are many luminaries in our tribal communities. I urge everyone to read about them and draw inspiration,” Modi concluded, emphasizing the need to honor and remember this rich heritage.

As the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’ approaches, PM Modi’s rallying call seeks not only to commemorate a historical milestone but also to inspire collective action and cultural pride among India’s citizens.