Amit Shah: Vande Mataram Turns 150: 'Voice of India's Soul' - Home Minister Amit Shah
Amit Shah - Vande Mataram Turns 150: 'Voice of India's Soul' - Home Minister Amit Shah
Today, November 7, marks a historic milestone as 'Vande Mataram', India's revered national song, completes 150 years, while to commemorate this significant occasion, the Central Government and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are organizing a grand nationwide celebration titled 'Rashtra Ekta Ka Utsav' (Festival of National Unity). Under this initiative, mass singing of 'Vande Mataram' is being conducted at 150. Different locations across the country, with millions participating simultaneously to express their national spirit.
Home Minister Amit Shah's Inspiring Message
On this momentous occasion, Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the profound significance of 'Vande Mataram' through an inspiring message. Posting on the social media platform 'X', Shah stated that 'Vande Mataram' isn't merely a collection of words, but rather the 'voice of India's soul'. He emphasized the song's crucial role in uniting the country against British rule and invigorating the consciousness of freedom. Shah elaborated that 'Vande Mataram' instilled an unwavering sense of dedication, pride, and sacrifice towards the motherland in the hearts of revolutionaries, inspiring them to make ultimate sacrifices for the nation's independence. The Home Minister further asserted that the song continues to ignite the flame of nationalism in the. Hearts of countrymen and remains an eternal source of unity, patriotism, and new energy among the youth today. He appealed to all citizens to collectively sing the full version of this great song with their families on its 150th commemoration, ensuring its inspiration reaches future generations.The 'Festival of National Unity' Initiative
The 'Rashtra Ekta Ka Utsav' organized by the Central Government and the BJP is a comprehensive initiative aimed at disseminating the historical and cultural significance of 'Vande Mataram' to every citizen. As part of this festival, alongside mass singing programs at 150 locations nationwide, various cultural, educational, and social activities are also being organized. The objective of these events is to underscore the glorious history of the national song and its pivotal role in the Indian freedom struggle. This initiative not only pays tribute to the song but also strengthens the sense of unity and national pride among the populace, while through these programs, the younger generation is being introduced to the stories of sacrifice and patriotism behind 'Vande Mataram', enabling them to take pride in their rich heritage.Special Events in Bengal and Political Implications
As part of this nationwide celebration, the Bharatiya Janata Party is also organizing large-scale events in West Bengal, while on November 7 itself, mass singing programs of 'Vande Mataram' have been scheduled at 1100 different locations across Bengal. This extensive organization is being viewed as a significant outreach program ahead of the upcoming West Bengal elections. The BJP aims to convey a message of promoting Bengali culture and identity through this initiative, given that 'Vande Mataram' originated from Bengal. This program is also seen as an effort to consolidate the party's base in the state and advance its agenda of cultural nationalism, while however, some opposition to these events has also been reported in certain areas, highlighting the sensitive nature of the issue.Union Cabinet's Historic Decision
The decision to celebrate the 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' nationwide was taken on October 1 during a Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while this decision accorded an official and national significance to the celebration. The Cabinet resolved to ensure that this historic occasion is celebrated across the country with dignity and enthusiasm, thereby honoring the legacy of 'Vande Mataram' and preserving its inspiration. This decision underscores the government's belief that the song is a crucial pillar of Indian identity and national unity, and its message should reach every citizen.