New Delhi, Jan 25 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday said celebrations are underway to mark 150 years of the composition of the national song Vande Mataram, describing it as a “lyrical national prayer” that instils patriotism in every Indian.
In a televised address to the nation on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, Murmu said the commemorative events have been organised since November 7 last year.
“This song, which is a prayer to the divine form of Bharat Mata, instils patriotism in every Indian,” she said.
The President recalled that the great nationalist poet Subramanya Bharati composed ‘Vande Mataram Yenbom’ in Tamil, meaning “Let us chant Vande Mataram”, which helped connect the masses on an even larger scale with the spirit of the national song.
She noted that translations of Vande Mataram in other Indian languages also became popular over time, further spreading its message across the country.
Murmu also highlighted the role of philosopher and freedom fighter Sri Aurobindo, who translated the song into English, helping introduce its essence to a wider audience.
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram holds a unique place in India’s freedom struggle and cultural consciousness, the President said, calling it the nation’s “lyrical national prayer”.
The President’s address comes ahead of the Republic Day celebrations on Monday, marking the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950. PTI MHS SKL NB
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