PM Modi Says ‘Vande Mataram’ Became a War Cry That United India Against British Rule

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a special discussion in Lok Sabha on Monday to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram, calling it a symbol of courage that strengthened India's fight against British rule.

He also reflected on the political climate when the song completed a century, saying the Constitution had been "throttled" and the nation "chained by the Emergency," a period he described as a dark chapter that had pushed patriots behind bars.

Parliament Opens a Landmark Debate

The Lok Sabha has allocated ten hours for the debate, with the NDA receiving three hours of speaking time before the discussion shifts to the Rajya Sabha. Eight Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Deepender Hooda, will also share their views. Modi said the country now has an opportunity "to restore the greatness of Vande Mataram," something he believes "should not be allowed to pass."

He emphasised how deeply rooted the song is in the freedom story of India. "We are sitting here because lakhs chanted Vande Mataram and fought for Independence," he said, calling it an honour for Parliament to reflect on a legacy that shaped India's destiny.

Song's Origins and Its Role as a Unifying Force

The Prime Minister revisited the conditions in which Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote Vande Mataram. He noted that the British were attempting to spread their anthem God Save the Queen across Indian households, yet the stirring words of Vande Mataram rose above that effort and became a rallying call.

"Vande Mataram was written at a time when British rulers were trying to take their anthem to every household," Modi said. He added that the mantra of Vande Mataram had "given power and inspiration to the entire country during the freedom struggle," energising people and showing them "the path of courage and determination."

He recalled how the song united people even during moments of division. "The British divided Bengal in 1905, but Vande Mataram stood like a rock and inspired unity," he said. Modi described it not only as a political call but "a sacred war cry to rid Bharatmata of vestiges of colonialism."

The Song's Enduring Message

Modi said the 150 year milestone is a moment of pride for the country. "It is a matter of pride for us that we are witnessing the historic occasion of Vande Mataram completing 150 years," he said. He highlighted that the song's message continues to guide India's spirit of self-belief and national pride.

He reflected again on the freedom struggle, saying, "The mantra energised and inspired India's freedom movement and showed the path of courage and determination." Calling attention to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's courage, Modi added, "Bankim da wrote Vande Mataram at a time when it had become fashionable to look down upon India."

Returning to his central message, the Prime Minister reminded the House, "We are sitting here because lakhs chanted Vande Mataram and fought for independence," urging lawmakers to honour the spirit that shaped India's journey to freedom.