Haryana CM Saini says ‘Vande Mataram’ reflects India’s unity and pride

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday described ‘Vande Mataram’ as more than just a national song—calling it the soul, heartbeat, and identity of India. He said that those who oppose or question the song fail to understand the essence of India’s culture, spirit, and unity. Saini was speaking at a state-level function held in Ambala City to mark the 150th anniversary of the iconic song that inspired millions during India’s freedom movement.

The event was attended by senior government officials, students, and members of the public, who joined in celebrating the historical and emotional importance of ‘Vande Mataram’. The chief minister extended his greetings to the people of Haryana, saying that the song continues to remind every citizen of their duty and pride towards the nation.

Saini said that “Vande Mataram” represents the deep connection Indians have with their motherland. “It is a song that has united generations and inspired countless sacrifices for the country,” he remarked, adding that the melody and words of the song still stir patriotism and strength in people’s hearts.

Remembering the spirit of freedom and sacrifice

During his speech, CM Saini spoke about the historical significance of “Vande Mataram” in India’s freedom struggle. He said the song was a spiritual force that ignited self-belief, discipline, and courage among Indians living under British rule. “This song awakened the spirit of independence among the people and gave them the confidence to rise against injustice,” Saini said.

He further explained that during the colonial period, “Vande Mataram” became a rallying cry for revolutionaries and youth who fought for India’s independence. “The British feared this song because it possessed a power greater than weapons. It gave people the energy to dream of a free India,” he said.

Saini noted that Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar, a noted musician, was invited to sing “Vande Mataram” at the Kakinada Congress Session in 1923, marking a historic moment when the song’s significance reached the national stage. He said that the song not only inspired freedom fighters but also strengthened the collective spirit of Indians who believed in justice, equality, and liberty.

The chief minister added that the message of “Vande Mataram” is still relevant today as it reminds citizens of their moral responsibility to work for the nation’s progress. “Just as it united India during the fight for freedom, today it should unite us in building a stronger, self-reliant country,” he said.

Saini’s address drew strong applause from the audience, many of whom joined in singing the national song. The crowd was filled with emotion as the familiar words echoed across the event grounds, reminding everyone of India’s long journey from struggle to independence.

150 years of pride and patriotism

The Ambala event was part of nationwide celebrations marking 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, which was originally written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875. The state function also included a live telecast of the main ceremony held in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national commemoration. At the central event, the Prime Minister released a commemorative stamp and coin to honour the song’s enduring legacy.

In Ambala, Chief Minister Saini also administered the ‘Swadeshi Sankalp’ oath to participants, encouraging them to support Indian-made products and promote self-reliance. He visited an exhibition organised by the Information, Public Relations and Language Department, which showcased the historical journey and influence of “Vande Mataram” over the last 150 years. The exhibition featured rare photographs, documents, and displays highlighting how the song shaped India’s national identity.

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Saini said that the message of “Vande Mataram” is not confined to the past. “It continues to inspire every generation to serve the nation with honesty, courage, and pride,” he said. He urged young people to learn about the sacrifices made during India’s freedom movement and to carry forward the same dedication in modern times.

He added that while the country has made great progress since independence, the values of patriotism, discipline, and unity—symbolised by “Vande Mataram”—must continue to guide the people. “The song is a divine power that reminds us of our collective duty to protect and strengthen India’s democracy,” the chief minister said.

As part of the celebrations, school students performed patriotic songs, cultural dances, and short plays based on India’s freedom movement. The atmosphere was filled with emotion and national pride as people waved the tricolour and sang along with the choir performing “Vande Mataram.”

The event concluded with the chief minister reiterating that “Vande Mataram” belongs to every Indian, regardless of religion, region, or language. “It is not just a song—it is the voice of India’s soul, a prayer for unity and progress,” Saini said. He expressed hope that the next generation would continue to draw inspiration from the song and uphold the ideals it represents.

With the 150th anniversary celebrations, Haryana joined the rest of the nation in paying homage to the timeless spirit of “Vande Mataram.” The function at Ambala symbolised not just a remembrance of history but also a renewed commitment to the values of courage, patriotism, and self-reliance that the song continues to inspire.