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Vande Mataram Debate: Why a Muslim Leader Warns Against Pressure

A prominent Muslim leader has weighed in on the Vande Mataram debate. Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi believes the choice to recite the national song should be personal and free from pressure. His remarks follow a special parliamentary session where PM Modi celebrated the song's 150-year history. The discussion highlights the ongoing balance between national sentiment and individual freedom.

Key Points: Maulana Rizvi on Vande Mataram Recital Freedom and Pressure

  • Maulana Rizvi comments amid Lok Sabha uproar over the national song's 150th anniversary
  • He asserts the Constitution and courts protect individual choice on recitation
  • PM Modi traced the song's history from 1875 to its role in the freedom struggle
  • The Prime Minister urged Parliament to preserve Vande Mataram's legacy for future generations
2 min read

No one should be pressurised to sing, or stopped from singing Vande Matram: Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi

All India Muslim Jamat chief Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi says no one should be forced or barred from singing Vande Mataram, citing court verdicts.

"Those who wish to recite it should be free to do so... and people who don’t want to recite it should not be pressurised. - Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi"

New Delhi, Dec 9

All India Muslim Jamat chief Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi Barelvi on Tuesday said that the national song Vande Mataram should neither be imposed on anyone nor should any person be stopped from reciting it if they so wish, emphasising that the Constitution and the courts safeguard individual choice on such matters.

His remarks come amid uproar in the Lok Sabha during a special sitting to mark the 150th anniversary of the national song.

Speaking to IANS, Maulana Rizvi said, “There is currently commotion in the Lok Sabha regarding Vande Mataram. It has been 150 years since this song was first introduced, and on its 150th anniversary, both the ruling party and the Opposition are at odds, each holding their own views.”

He added, “In my opinion, Vande Mataram is simply a song. Those who wish to recite it should be free to do so, and they should not be stopped. And people who don’t want to recite it should not be pressurised; they should be left to their own conscience, because the Supreme Court, after the Madras High Court, said in its verdict that no one should be pressurised. They are allowed to recite independently, not pressurised.”

His comments came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked the “enduring spirit” of Vande Mataram while initiating a day-long discussion in the Lok Sabha to commemorate 150 years of the national song. Calling it a hymn that stood “like a rock” against British rule, PM Modi traced its journey from Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s composition in 1875 to its pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle.

The Prime Minister said Vande Mataram became “a current of emotion” that united the nation and continued to inspire generations, even during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

He recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s words describing the hymn as one that “connects us,” adding that it remains a mantra of unity as India marches toward Atmanirbhar Bharat.

From colonial-era bans and punishments for uttering or printing the words, to countless freedom fighters embracing martyrdom with Vande Mataram on their lips, the PM said the song symbolises sacrifice, resilience and hope.

PM Modi urged Parliament to ensure that the legacy and spirit of Vande Mataram are preserved and passed on to future generations.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The PM's speech was moving, highlighting the song's role in our freedom struggle. But turning it into a political tool in Parliament on its anniversary is disappointing. Can't we celebrate our heritage without the usual drama?
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, I disagree with the Maulana calling it "simply a song." It's our national song! It's a symbol of unity and sacrifice. While no one should be forced, every Indian should feel a sense of pride and connection to it.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in India for work, I find this debate fascinating. The balance between national pride and individual freedom is a delicate one. The Supreme Court's stance seems like the most sensible approach for a diverse democracy.
K
Karthik V
The spirit of Vande Mataram is in its voluntary embrace. When my grandfather sang it during the Quit India movement, it was from the heart, not under pressure. Forced patriotism is meaningless. Let's focus on the real issues facing the country.
M
Meera T
Well said. The Constitution is clear on this. Whether it's Vande Mataram or the National Anthem, personal choice must be respected. Our leaders should spend this energy on improving education and healthcare, not on creating unnecessary divisions.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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