Relevance: GS Paper I – Indian Culture and National Movement; Source: The Hindu, PIB

Context / Why in News

India marks 150 years of the composition of Vande Mataram — the song that ignited national consciousness during the freedom struggle. Written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, it became the National Song of India in 1950, symbolising devotion to the motherland.

Historical Background

• Vande Mataram was composed in Sanskrit and Bengali, and first appeared in Bankim Chandra’s novel “Anandamath” (1882).
  
• The phrase means “I bow to thee, Mother”, where “Mother” refers to Mother India.
  
• It became a rallying cry during the Swadeshi Movement (1905), inspiring patriotic unity against British rule.
  
• On 24 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly accorded it the status of National Song, to be honoured equally with the National Anthem.

Key Facts 

Significance

• Vande Mataram represents the fusion of literature and nationalism — a cultural call for India’s self-awakening.
  
• It embodies the ideals of unity in diversity, spiritual nationalism, and collective identity.
  
• The song illustrates how art and literature can serve as catalysts for social and political transformation.

About Bankim Chandra Chatterjee

• Born: 1838, Naihati (West Bengal) | Died: 1894
  
• One of the pioneers of modern Indian literature, often called the “Sahitya Samrat” (Emperor of Literature) of Bengal.
  
• Served as a Deputy Magistrate under the British administration.
  
• His works like Anandamath, Durgeshnandini, and Kapalkundala blended patriotism, spirituality, and nationalism — laying the cultural foundation for India’s freedom movement.
  

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

With reference to Vande Mataram, consider the following statements:

1. It was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Sanskrit and Bengali.
   
2. It was first published in the novel Anandamath.
   
3. It was adopted as the National Song of India by the Constituent Assembly in 1950.
   

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

One-line Wrap:
150 years on, Vande Mataram continues to echo as India’s lyrical symbol of patriotism, unity, and cultural pride.