Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and carry its spirit forward to future generations. Addressing the nation during his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi shared that various programmes will take place across India to celebrate this significant milestone.
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896, Vande Mataram holds a special place in India’s cultural heritage. Modi emphasized the importance of reviving the song’s values and motivating citizens to engage actively in national initiatives.
Throughout his 30-minute address, Modi highlighted remarkable citizen-led initiatives transforming local communities. He praised the efforts to revive mangroves in Gujarat, establish Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and restore lakes in Bengaluru. These initiatives reflect the unity and commitment of the nation towards environmental conservation.
Moreover, the Prime Minister lauded the paramilitary forces, particularly the BSF and CRPF, for integrating Indian dog breeds into their units. He mentioned that a Mudhol Hound recently brought home accolades at an international competition, proving their capabilities against foreign breeds.
“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” said Modi.
The Prime Minister also revealed that some of these Indian breeds will participate in the parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary on October 31.
In a nod to the agricultural sector, Modi commended the farmers of Koraput, Odisha, for their enthusiasm in cultivating coffee. Their dedication is significantly impacting local women’s lives, marking an important cultural shift in Odisha.
“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he remarked.
Modi also acknowledged the role of social media and digital culture in revitalizing Sanskrit. He highlighted young creator Yash Salunke, who teaches Sanskrit through creative reels while even playing cricket, showcasing the language’s adaptability.
Extending greetings for Chhath Puja, Modi described the festival as a confluence of devotion, affection, and tradition. He urged everyone to engage in the celebrations, symbolizing India’s deep-rooted social unity.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he remarked.
In closing, Modi discussed Operation Sindoor, expressing national pride in the campaign’s success in regions previously affected by Maoist violence.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” he said.
Remembering tribal hero Komaram Bheem, Modi hailed his courageous efforts against the Nizam of Hyderabad, referring to him as a symbol of valor and resistance. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, noting that his birth anniversary — Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas — will be celebrated on November 15.
“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, there are many other great luminaries in our tribal communities. I urge everyone to read about them and draw inspiration,” the Prime Minister concluded.
