Vande Mataram

09.12.2025

Vande Mataram

Context

The discussion surrounding Vande Mataram has intensified due to its 150th anniversary. The Government of India plans a year-long national celebration to commemorate this milestone, sparking fresh debates in Parliament regarding its history and adoption.

About the News Parliamentary Debate:

• Opposition Stance: Questioned the necessity of the extensive debate in the Lok Sabha.
• Political Allegations: Concerns were raised that the debate might be politically motivated, potentially targeting upcoming West Bengal elections.
• Prime Minister’s Remark: Suggested that only the first two stanzas were originally adopted to accommodate religious equations and align with the Muslim League at the time, reflecting a push for secularism.

Composition and Adoption Origins:

• Composer: Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
• Publication: First published in Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875; later incorporated into the novel Anand Math in 1882.
• Musical Composition: Rabindranath Tagore provided the music, embedding the song deeply into Indian culture.

National Status:

• 1937 CWC Decision: The Congress Working Committee adopted only the first two stanzas as the National Song.
• Official Recognition: On January 24, 1950, the first President of India announced Vande Mataram as the National Song, granting it equal status to the National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana).
• Constitutional Note: The Indian Constitution does not explicitly mention the term "National Song."

Historical Significance Freedom Struggle Role:

• 1896 Congress Session: Rabindranath Tagore sang Vande Mataram at the Calcutta Session, marking early political recognition.
• Partition of Bengal (1905): Became a rallying cry during the anti-partition protests.
• Swadeshi Movement: Referred to as a "War Cry" against British rule.
• Vande Mataram Sampradaya: Established in October 1905 in Kolkata to foster devotion to the Motherland.
• Press: Bipin Chandra Pal launched an English daily newspaper titled Vande Mataram in August 1906.

Conclusion

The 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram serves as a reminder of its pivotal role in India's freedom struggle, particularly during the Swadeshi Movement. While political debates continue regarding its adoption and stanzas, it remains a potent symbol of Indian culture and nationalism, holding a distinct status alongside the National Anthem.