Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on Monday were dedicated to commemorating 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram, a stirring anthem that played a central role in India’s freedom movement and continues to inspire generations. The parade, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhavan to the National War Memorial, featured elaborate decorations and tributes to the country’s cultural and patriotic heritage.
Tribute to a Timeless Anthem
This year’s theme, “Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram”, paid homage to the enduring legacy of the song composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and popularised during the Swadeshi movement. Originally part of the novel Anandamathand first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896, the song was officially adopted as India’s national song in 1950. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier announced a year-long commemoration of its 150th anniversary, culminating on November 7, 2025.
Tableaux and Cultural Display Highlight National Progress
Thirty tableaux—17 from States and Union Territories and 13 from various Ministries—were showcased under dual themes: “Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat”. These highlighted India’s developmental strides, self-reliance across sectors, and rich cultural heritage. Paintings from the 1923 Bande Mataram Album by Tejendra Kumar Mitra were also displayed along the route, enhancing the patriotic atmosphere.
Historical Significance and Modern Resonance
The song’s powerful refrain—“Mother, I Bow to Thee”—once echoed across India during colonial resistance. British attempts to suppress it only strengthened its symbolism as a unifier across castes, regions, and languages. Adopted by leaders, students, and revolutionaries alike, Vande Mataram became the soul of the national movement. In December 2025, Parliament marked its 150th anniversary with special debates, including historical references and government initiatives to revive its spirit among youth.
Finale to a Patriotic Celebration
The parade concluded with a symbolic banner bearing Vandemataram unfurled above Kartavya Path, as a sea of balloons was released into the sky—an emotional tribute to India’s unity, freedom, and cultural identity.
