Vande Mataram: 150 Years of Celebration

Introduction: India is commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram, the National Song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, through a nationwide programme running from 7 November 2025 to 7 November 2026.

Key pointers

  • Author: Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, also spelled Bankimchandra Chatterji.

  • Year of composition: 1875.

  • Original publication: The literary journal Bangadarshan; the song later appeared in his novel Anandamath.

  • Language: Originally composed in Sanskritised Bengali.

  • Historical significance: Became a powerful symbol of Indian nationalism during the freedom movement.

  • National status: Vande Mataram is India's National Song; Jana Gana Mana is the National Anthem.

  • Commemoration: The nationwide programme was inaugurated on 7 November 2025.

  • Associated initiatives: Cultural programmes, mass singing, exhibitions, and the release of a commemorative coin and postage stamp.

    Ministry of Culture
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UPSC focus: Do not confuse the National Song with the National Anthem. Also remember that the 150-year commemoration spans November 2025 to November 2026.