150 Years Of Vande Mataram: 2,500 Artists Perform ‘Vande Mataram’ Dance At Kartavya Path On 77th Republic Day

'Vande Mataram' Takes Centre Stage at Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path
A grand cultural performance unfolded at Kartavya Path in New Delhi during the 77th Republic Day celebrations on Monday.

Around 2,500 artists came together to present a beautifully coordinated dance performance set to Vande Mataram, creating one of the most memorable moments of this year's parade.

The performance marked 150 years of Vande Mataram, the national song that has inspired generations of Indians. Dancers wearing colourful costumes from different regions reflected the country's cultural diversity and shared heritage.

Folk and Classical Dances Celebrate India's Unity

Artists from across the country performed a mix of folk and classical dance forms, representing different states and traditions. The choreography highlighted how Vande Mataram continues to unite Indians across language, culture, and geography.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi watched the performance with keen interest as the dancers paid tribute to the song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875. Over the decades, the song has remained closely linked to India's freedom struggle and national pride.

Historic Theme Adds Deeper Meaning

This year's Republic Day parade followed the theme "Swatantrata Ka Mantra - Vande Mataram." The theme traced the journey of the song from a powerful slogan during the freedom movement to a symbol of national identity in modern India.

The performance took place in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and several foreign dignitaries, including European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, highlighting India's cultural strength and global connections.

Cultural Grandeur Meets Military Might

Alongside the cultural performances, the parade also showcased India's military strength. Marching contingents, defence equipment, and a thrilling flypast by the Indian Air Force impressed spectators lining Kartavya Path.

Fighter jets including Rafale, Su-30, and MiG-29 flew in formation, adding to the spectacle. The parade also featured traditional band performances and tableaux from 17 states and 13 central ministries, reflecting India's progress and diversity.

A Celebration Rooted in History

Republic Day is celebrated every year on January 26 to mark the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. Organised by the Ministries of Defence and Culture, the parade has been a national tradition since the first Republic Day.

This year's celebrations stood out for giving special focus to the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, blending history, art, and patriotism into a powerful display of India's enduring spirit.