National Song of India, Vande Mataram, Lyrics, Significance

The national song of India, Vande Mataram, holds a deeply rooted place in the country’s history and cultural heritage. Written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, it became a rallying cry in the freedom struggle. On 24 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India officially adopted it as the national song, giving it enduring significance.

National Song of India Why in News? 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the year-long commemoration of 150 years of the National Song “Vande Mataram” on 7th November 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi. Written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee on Akshaya Navami in 1875, Vande Mataram symbolizes India’s unity and patriotism. The event features mass singing of the full version nationwide at 9:50 AM and the release of a commemorative stamp and coin, marking the beginning of celebrations that will continue until 7th November 2026 across the country.

National Song of India

A national song serves as a symbol of national pride, unity and cultural identity. In India, Vande Mataram represents devotion to the mother-land and the spirit of selfless service. Composed in a mix of Sanskrit and Bengali, it reflects India’s plurality and storied past.

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National Song of India Historical Background

The key milestones related to the historical background of the National Song of India has been listed below:

• Origin (1875): Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote the poem Vande Mataram on November 07, 1885.
• 1882: Publication of Anandamath including Vande Mataram
• First public rendition (1896): It was sung at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress, evoking patriotic fervour.
• 1905: Surge of popularity during the Swadeshi Movement
• Adoption as National Song: On 24 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly declared Vande Mataram as the national song; President Rajendra Prasad emphasised its status equal to the national anthem. 
• 2025: Celebration of 150 years of the song’s composition.

National Song of India Lyrics

The opening lines of the National Song of India is mentioned below:

“Vande Mataram!

Sujalam, suphalam, malayaja shitalam,

Shasyashyamalam, Mataram!

Vande Mataram!

Shubhrajyotsna pulakitayaminim,

Phullakusumita drumadala shobhinim,

Suhasinim sumadhura bhashinim,

Sukhadam varadam, Mataram!

Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram!”

The meaning of the refrain “Vande Mataram” is “I bow to thee, Mother.” It captures both reverence and devotion.

National Song of India during the Freedom Struggle

National Song of India- “Vande Mataram” became a beacon of resistance against colonial rule.

• It inspired freedom fighters to embrace national service despite repression.
• The British government at one point banned its public singing in Bengal, which only amplified its symbolic power.
• The song unified diverse communities under the shared aspiration of independence.
• Many of the freedom fighters sacrificed their life while chanting “Vande Mataram” including Shirish Kumar, Babu Genu, etc.

National Song of India Significance

Even today, National Song of India Vande Mataram is sung at national events, schools and flag hoist ceremonies. It stands as:

• A tribute to India’s cultural heritage and freedom legacy.
• A symbol of patriotism and collective identity.
• A reminder of service and sacrifice for the nation.
• Although the Constitution does not explicitly mention a “national song,” the Indian government’s official portal affirms its unique status.
• It highlights unity in diversity, written in a mixed language form and sung across communities.
• It embodies service to the nation and respect for freedom fighters’ sacrifice.
• It enriches India’s national identity, alongside other national symbols like the flag and anthem.

National Song of India Code of Conduct

While the National Anthem of India has formal guidelines and a legally mandated duration (52 seconds) under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, the National Song of India- “Vande Mataram” does not carry mandatory legal etiquette. However, it is deeply respected and has been accorded equal honour by the President.

National Song of India UPSC

Vande Mataram, the national song of India, is more than a melody, it’s a living legacy of the struggle for freedom, cultural pride and national unity. Its words echo the aspirations of a young nation and continue to stir hearts across generations. Its equal status with the national anthem underlines the importance of remembering where we came from, even as we look ahead.