Vande Mataram's 150th anniversary: PM Modi leads commemoration

This special report focuses on the 150th-anniversary commemoration of India's national song, 'Vande Mataram', led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. While the nation celebrates with mass singing events, the occasion has reignited a historical political conflict between the BJP and the Congress. The BJP has accused the Congress, under Jawaharlal Nehru's leadership, of altering the song for political reasons. BJP spokesperson C.R. Kesavan stated, 'Congress under Nehru citing religious grounds deliberately removed stanzas of Vande Mataram which hailed Goddess Ma Durga'. The celebrations, which began on November 7, 2025, include the release of a commemorative stamp and coin and a concert featuring 75 musicians. The report delves into the rich history of the song, from its composition by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875 to its pivotal role in India's freedom struggle.