State-level commemoration of 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’

GANGTOK,  (IPR): The State-level commemoration of 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ was held at Manan Kendra, Gangtok, today with patriotic fervour and cultural splendour. Organized by the Culture department, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Home department, the event celebrated the legacy of India’s national song as a symbol of freedom, unity and devotion to the Motherland.

The occasion marked the formal launch of a year-long nationwide celebration from November 7, 2025 to November 7, 2026, commemorating 150 years of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s composition that inspired India’s freedom movement and continues to resonate with the nation.

The programme was graced by the Governor of Sikkim, Om Prakash Mathur, as the chief guest, who inaugurated the Vande Mataram Exhibition at the outset.

Joining virtually from the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described ‘Vande Mataram’ as not merely a song but a mantra and an expression of national unity that has inspired generations. He recalled how the verses, written in 1875, became a rallying call during the Swadeshi Movement. He urged the youth to carry forward the message of patriotism and national pride embodied in the song.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that ‘Vande Mataram’ is deeply rooted in the national consciousness and has inspired leaders including Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Recalling the words of Dr Rajendra Prasad, he noted that despite historical debates, the song has remained a steadfast source of inspiration. The Governor also paid tribute to Sikkim’s freedom fighters Trilochan Pokhrel and Helen Lepcha, acknowledging their contributions to India’s struggle for freedom. He appealed to schools to include the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ in morning assemblies to instill patriotism in students.

The Governor concluded his address by leading the gathering in a pledge to uphold unity, strive for excellence and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Speaking on the occasion, Culture minister GT Dhungel said that ‘Vande Mataram’ was a movement that awakened the spirit of the nation. He noted that the song’s later stanzas, which express compassion and devotion, also deserve recognition and that the 150th anniversary is a tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s visionary work.

Earlier, secretary, Home department, Tenzing Kaleon delivered the welcome address.

The programme featured a mass rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ by students of Modern Senior Secondary School and artists of the Culture department, followed by a patriotic song by students of West Point Senior Secondary School. Dance performances were presented by artists of the Culture department and Tapashree Dance Academy.

A talk on the historical and cultural significance of ‘Vande Mataram’ was delivered by Dr Rajen Upadhyaya, Assistant Professor (History), Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government College, Tadong.

During the initial segment of the programme, the Information and Public Relations (IPR) department presented a photography exhibition highlighting the brief history of the national song, 'Vande Mataram: Clarion Call for India's Freedom Struggle'.

The event was attended by the Deputy Speaker, Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Raj Kumari Thapa; ministers; Member of Parliament; senior government officials; dignitaries; teachers and students from various schools; and officers and staff of the Government of Sikkim.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by secretary, Culture department Basant Kumar Lama, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.