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Vande Mataram at 150: How a Song United India's Freedom Struggle

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla celebrated the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram at a special commemoration event in Imphal. He emphasized that the national song represents much more than just music—it's a profound expression of love for the motherland. The Governor highlighted how Vande Mataram became the rallying cry during India's freedom struggle, awakening nationalist spirit across the country. He called upon citizens to make the song's message of unity and progress a living pledge for building a developed India.

Key Points: Manipur Governor Bhalla Honors Vande Mataram 150th Anniversary

  • Composed 150 years ago by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875
  • Became lifeblood of India's freedom movement awakening nationalism
  • Adopted as national song by Constituent Assembly in 1950
  • Continues to unite Indians beyond regional and religious barriers
  • Manipur's patriotic legacy reflects song's essence through generations
  • Governor urges citizens to live by Vande Mataram as national pledge
2 min read

'Vande Mataram' a powerful expression of love for motherland: Manipur Guv

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla commemorates 150 years of Vande Mataram, calling it a powerful expression of love for motherland that continues to unite Indians.

"Vande Mataram is not merely a song but a powerful expression of love and reverence for the motherland - Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla"

Imphal, Nov 7

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said on Friday that country's national song 'Vande Mataram', composed by the great patriot and writer Bankim Chandra Chatterjee 150 years ago, is not merely a song but a powerful expression of love and reverence for the motherland.

Addressing the commemoration of 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) at Palace Compound in Imphal, the Governor said that 'Vande Mataram', composed in 1875, is not merely a song but a powerful expression of love and reverence for the motherland.

He recalled how it became the lifeblood of India's freedom movement, a call that awakened the spirit of nationalism across the country.

Governor Bhalla, former Union Home Secretary, noted that when the Constituent Assembly adopted 'Vande Mataram' as the national song in 1950, it acknowledged its unmatched contribution in shaping the soul of the nation.

The Governor reflected that even after 150 years, the spirit of 'Vande Mataram' continues to unite all Indians beyond barriers of region, language, and faith.

He urged everyone to uphold its message of unity, peace, and progress and to draw inspiration from its sacred words in building a strong and prosperous nation.

The Governor also spoke about Manipur's rich legacy of patriotism and sacrifice, saying that the courage, resilience, and devotion of the people of Manipur reflect the very essence of 'Vande Mataram'.

From the state's historic heroes to its present-day achievers in sports, arts, and culture, Manipur continues to make the nation proud, he noted.

The Governor appreciated the mass singing and choreographic presentations on 'Vande Mataram' by Shri Shri Balmukunda Dev Music College, the Government Dance College, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, whose performances beautifully captured the patriotic fervour of the song.

He commended the Department of Art and Culture for its efforts in organising the commemorative event with such dignity and grandeur.

Governor Bhalla called upon all citizens to let 'Vande Mataram' be not just a song we sing, but a pledge we live by, to dedicate ourselves to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', a developed, united, and inclusive India.

Several MLAs, Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, senior officers, and distinguished guests attended the commemoration event.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
While I respect our national song, I wish the government would focus more on actual development work in Manipur rather than just symbolic events. The state needs infrastructure and employment opportunities, not just patriotic speeches.
A
Ananya R
Beautiful event! Manipur has such a rich cultural heritage and their contribution to Indian sports and arts is incredible. Vande Mataram truly represents the diversity and unity of our great nation. Jai Hind! 🙏
M
Michael C
As someone who has lived in India for 5 years, I find Vande Mataram incredibly moving. The way it brings people together across different states and languages is remarkable. Good to see Manipur celebrating this important part of Indian history.
S
Siddharth J
The mention of Viksit Bharat 2047 is important. We need to move beyond just singing patriotic songs and actually work towards building that developed India. Every citizen has a role to play in nation-building.
N
Nisha Z
Heartwarming to see cultural events like this in Manipur. The dance academies must have put up a wonderful show. Our national symbols need to be celebrated more often to keep the patriotic spirit alive in the younger generation. ❤️

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