Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha launches the 150th-anniversary celebration of Vande Mataram in Agartala, honoring Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s timeless creation. Under PM Modi’s leadership, Tripura begins year-long cultural and educational programs celebrating unity, patriotism, and nation-building.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Friday described Vande Mataram as a “sacred mantra of nation-building”, inaugurating the 150th-anniversary celebration of the legendary patriotic song at the Secretariat premises in Agartala. The event marked the beginning of a year-long nationwide observance initiated under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The celebration, rich in cultural and emotional fervor, paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the great Bengali novelist and poet who first composed Vande Mataram in 1875. The song was first published in the Bangadarshan magazine before becoming immortalized in his classic novel Anandamath (1882). For generations, Vande Mataram has embodied the essence of India’s freedom struggle, uniting millions under the banner of national pride and devotion.
A Song That Became the Soul of India
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Dr. Saha recalled the historical journey and spiritual depth of Vande Mataram, calling it an “unfailing inspiration for a developed India (Viksit Bharat).”
“The song personifies our motherland as a goddess, creating a deep emotional and spiritual bond among people across regions and religions. Even after 150 years, Vande Mataram continues to inspire unity, sacrifice, and patriotism,” Dr. Saha said.
The Chief Minister joined hundreds of participants in a collective rendition of the song, describing the moment as one filled with immense emotion and pride. He said the words of Vande Mataram still resonate as a call to national awakening, reminding every Indian of their duty toward the motherland.
“This song once inspired countless freedom fighters to break the chains of colonial rule. Today, it continues to motivate us to build a self-reliant, progressive, and united India,” he added.
A National Celebration Under PM Modi’s Leadership
The nationwide celebration, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to honor 150 years of Vande Mataram through cultural programs, exhibitions, and educational events across India. The Prime Minister’s virtual address, played live during the event, was described by Dr. Saha as a “source of timeless inspiration for the youth.”
“PM Modi’s call to celebrate this milestone reminds us that the essence of Vande Mataram lies in building a nation driven by discipline, dedication, and devotion. His message will energize future generations with a renewed sense of patriotism,” Dr. Saha said.
Tripura’s Year-long Observance
As part of the celebration, Dr. Saha announced that the Tripura government will organize district-level and institutional programs throughout the year. Schools, colleges, and cultural organizations will host essay contests, art exhibitions, and musical performances centered on Vande Mataram and India’s cultural heritage.
Students and citizens will be encouraged to share their experiences, photos, and videos of these events on official social media platforms under a statewide campaign promoting unity and nationalism.
Earlier, in a statement shared on social media, Dr. Saha described Vande Mataram as a “unique mantra of nation-building.”
He wrote:
“Over 150 years ago, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s Vande Mataram inspired Indians to rise against colonial oppression. Today, under PM Modi’s guidance, we celebrate this song as the eternal spirit of national unity and development.”
Echoing India’s Soul through Culture
Later in the evening, a cultural program at Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala featured music, dance, and poetry inspired by Vande Mataram, symbolizing India’s rich heritage and emotional bond with the motherland. The Chief Minister said the song continues to bridge generations, fostering pride and belonging among Indians across regions.
“The emotions that Vande Mataram evokes are timeless. It is more than just a song—it is the heartbeat of India,” Dr. Saha concluded.
With Tripura joining the nationwide celebrations, the state reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the values of patriotism, unity, and cultural pride that the song embodies. As Vande Mataram turns 150, its message continues to resonate—calling every citizen to contribute to the making of a Viksit Bharat.
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