President Murmu on the Enduring Legacy of Vande Mataram
In a powerful reaffirmation of India’s shared national identity, President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday described ‘Vande Mataram‘ as a “proclamation of the unity of India.” Her remarks, delivered at the launch of a film titled ‘Vande Mataram‘, serve as a poignant reminder of the national song’s deep-rooted connection to the soul of the nation.
The President’s statement delves into the very essence of what this timeless anthem represents, emphasizing its role as a unifying force.
A Clarion Call from India’s Freedom Struggle
Penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in his 1882 novel Anandamath, ‘Vande Mataram‘ was more than just poetry. It was a clarion call that ignited passion in the hearts of millions during India’s long and arduous freedom struggle. The song became a defiant slogan on the lips of freedom fighters and the spiritual war cry of a nation awakening to its destiny.
The Song’s Unifying Message
President Murmu eloquently highlighted how the song beautifully encapsulates the diverse yet unified spirit of India.
“‘Vande Mataram‘ is a proclamation of the unity of India, which is full of diversities of languages, regions and lifestyles,” she stated.
This is the song’s true genius. In its verses, the Motherland is personified—adorned with gushing rivers, lush fruit groves, and cool southerly winds. It is an ode not to a specific region or community, but to the entire geographical and cultural expanse of Bharat. This vision of a singular, benevolent ‘Mataram’ (Mother) has, for generations, transcended all differences, binding every Indian as a child of the same soil.
Renewing Our Pledge in Modern India
In today’s fast-paced world, revisiting the core message of ‘Vande Mataram‘ is more crucial than ever. The President emphasised that the song invokes a sense of love, duty, and sacrifice for the motherland. It is this very spirit of selfless service that built our nation and continues to be the bedrock of our progress. By celebrating ‘Vande Mataram‘, we are renewing our pledge to the ideals it stands for.
While the first two stanzas have been officially adopted as India’s national song, President Murmu’s words steer the focus back to its universally unifying theme. Her address serves as a call to listen to the song not just with our ears, but with our hearts, and to feel the same patriotic fervour that moved countless heroes of our past.
As India forges its path on the global stage, President Murmu’s reminder that ‘Vande Mataram‘ remains a proclamation of India’s unity is both timely and profound. It is the resounding echo of our shared past and the hopeful anthem of our united future.
