New Delhi, Nov 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the removal of key stanzas from the national song “Vande Mataram” in 1937 sowed the seeds of partition and reflected a “divisive mindset” that continues to challenge the nation even today.
Speaking at the launch of the 150th anniversary celebrations of Vande Mataram at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Modi said the song had united Indians during the freedom struggle and remained a source of inspiration for generations. On the occasion, the Prime Minister also released a commemorative coin and postage stamp marking the milestone year.
“Vande Mataram became the voice of India’s freedom struggle — it expressed the emotions of every Indian. But in 1937, important stanzas — the soul of the song — were removed, and that act sowed the seeds of partition,” Modi said, adding that such divisive thinking still persists in some quarters.
Underscoring the song’s timeless relevance, Modi said, “When the enemy attacked our honour through terrorism, the world saw India take the form of Durga.” Referring to the spirit of resilience, he added that Vande Mataram continues to fill the nation with “new energy and resolve” even 150 years after its creation.
Calling the song a “mantra of devotion to Mother India,” Modi said it connects India’s historical pride with the nation’s modern aspirations. “We must build a country that leads the world through knowledge, science, and technology,” he said.
The year-long celebration — from November 7, 2025, to November 7, 2026 — honours the 150th year of Bankim Chandra Chatterji’s iconic composition, which first appeared in Bangadarshan magazine as part of his novel Anandamath on Akshaya Navami, November 7, 1875. (Agencies)
