In the 127th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon citizens to actively participate in the nationwide celebrations marking 150 years of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, on November 7. He described the song as a timeless embodiment of India’s patriotism, unity, and spiritual strength, urging every Indian to connect with its legacy and the vision of a self-reliant, united nation.
‘वन्देमातरम्’ में जो अद्भुत भाव भरा है, वो हमें मां-भारती की संतानों के रूप में अपने दायित्वों का बोध कराता है। 7 नवंबर को हम ‘वन्देमातरम्’ के 150वें वर्ष के उत्सव में प्रवेश करेंगे, जिसको लेकर देशवासियों से मेरा यह विशेष आग्रह…#VandeMatram150#MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/6kGaMJyOYw
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 26, 2025
PM Modi began by recalling the historical and emotional significance of Vande Mataram. The song, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the late 19th century, was first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896. It quickly became a rallying cry for India’s freedom struggle, inspiring countless patriots to fight against colonial rule. The Prime Minister said, “Vande Mataram ignites boundless emotion and pride in every Indian’s heart,” emphasising that its words continue to awaken the spirit of love and devotion toward Ma Bharati, Mother India.
Reflecting on the song’s enduring power, Modi remarked that even a single chant of “Vande Mataram” can unite 140 crore Indians, especially in times of difficulty. He described it as a “song that lends tangible voice form” to the deep, indescribable emotion of patriotism. According to him, the song’s first words themselves carry an energy that symbolises India’s eternal cultural and spiritual heritage.
Paying tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, PM Modi highlighted how the composer sought to infuse national pride and awaken a sense of purpose in a colonised India. Although composed over a century ago, the Prime Minister said, its essence is “connected to the immortal consciousness of India that is thousands of years old.” He encouraged citizens, schools, and communities across the nation to participate in the 150th anniversary celebrations and express their gratitude toward the song that continues to inspire generations.
Alongside this tribute, Modi used the occasion to remind people of their responsibility toward the environment. He urged everyone to join the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign by planting trees as a tribute to Mother Earth. The Prime Minister also highlighted innovative local environmental initiatives, such as the ‘Garbage Café’ model in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh. In these cafés, citizens can exchange plastic waste for meals, an effort that creatively merges cleanliness, sustainability, and compassion.
Concluding his address, PM Modi said that the spirit of Vande Mataram should inspire not only patriotism but also collective responsibility and social harmony. He urged Indians to celebrate the 150th anniversary with enthusiasm, gratitude, and a renewed pledge to serve the nation. The 127th episode of Mann Ki Baat thus served as both a tribute to India’s cultural heritage and a call to action, reminding citizens that Vande Mataram is not merely a song, but a living symbol of unity, pride, and love for the motherland.
