Odisha Joins 150th Anniversary Celebration of “Vande Mataram” to Inspire Patriotism

Odisha joined the nation in celebrating the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, marking the state’s participation in the year-long nationwide event inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday.

A special function was organized at Lok Seva Bhawan, where Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi led the collective singing of the iconic national song along with senior officials and students.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that “Vande Mataram” is not merely a patriotic anthem but a timeless symbol of patriotism, sacrifice, and bravery that united Indians during the freedom struggle. He recalled that the song, penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in his novel Anandamath, had sparked nationalistic fervor across India, to the extent that it was once banned by the British government due to its powerful impact.

“National development is impossible without patriotism, irrespective of language, religion, or region,” Majhi remarked. “Vande Mataram reignites the flame of patriotism in our hearts and reminds us of the sacrifices that built our nation.”

He further emphasized that the collective singing of the national song, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, would foster a renewed sense of unity and nationalism across the country. The Chief Minister announced that over the coming year, schools, colleges, government institutions, and NGOs across Odisha will organize collective singing events, cultural programs, and awareness drives to promote patriotic values.

“Let us all participate in this year-long celebration,” Majhi urged. “Its auspicious beginning has started today — together, we will spread the glory of Bharat Mata across the world.”

The event was attended by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and Dr. Vijay Ketan Upadhyay, Secretary of the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture, along with other senior officials. Students from Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya added a cultural dimension to the occasion with a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram, capturing the spirit of devotion and pride.