150 Years of Vande Mataram

Birth of a National Song

The song Vande Mataram was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the mid-1870s, during a period of rising national consciousness in India. It is believed that the song was written on the auspicious day of Akshaya Navami, 7th November 1875.

Originally published in Bankim Chandra’s literary journal Bangadarshan, the song was later included in his landmark novel Anandamath (1882), where it became a symbol of the spirit of India’s struggle for freedom.

A Hymn to the Motherland

Vande Mataram invokes Bharat Mata — the Motherland — as a divine embodiment of strength, prosperity, and spiritual beauty. The song gave poetic voice to India’s awakening spirit of unity, pride, and self-respect at a time when the idea of national identity was still taking shape.

Through its stirring imagery and devotional tone, Vande Mataram became a hymn celebrating the sacred bond between the land and its people.

Voice of the Freedom Movement

The song reached the masses after Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore sang it at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress, marking its transformation from literary verse to a national anthem of awakening.

Following the Partition of Bengal in 1905, Vande Mataram became the rallying cry of the Swadeshi Movement, uniting people across regions, languages, and communities in their struggle against colonial rule.

Its spiritual and emotional appeal transcended barriers, inspiring countless patriots who found in its verses the courage to fight for India’s freedom.

Symbol of Unity and National Pride

During the freedom struggle, Vande Mataram became much more than a song — it was a symbol of national unity and cultural resurgence. It infused people with an unbreakable spirit of sacrifice and pride in their heritage.

Chanting Vande Mataram became synonymous with expressing devotion to the Motherland and asserting India’s right to self-determination.

Recognition as the National Song

On 24th January 1950, as India adopted its Constitution, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, declared that Vande Mataram—which had played a historic role in the freedom struggle—would be honoured as the National Song of India.

Since then, it has continued to embody the ideals of freedom, unity, and cultural pride, serving as a timeless reminder of India’s journey toward independence and nationhood.

150 Years of Vande Mataram – A National Celebration

In 2025, India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram — a milestone that honours its enduring message of unity, patriotism, and devotion to the Motherland. Nationwide commemorative events are being organised to reflect on its legacy and to reaffirm the timeless ideals it represents.

Philatelic Tribute

To mark this historic occasion, the Department of Posts proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp celebrating 150 years of Vande Mataram.

This special issue stands as a tribute to the song that inspired a nation, echoing the spirit of sacrifice, resilience, and love for the Motherland. More than a hymn, Vande Mataram remains the soul of India’s national identity — a melody that continues to inspire generations.