# Vande Mataram to be performed at Red Fort for first time on I-Day

2026-08-10T21:50:32+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

The national song 'Vande Mataram' will be performed at the Red Fort during this year's Independence Day celebrations on August 15, marking the first time it is included in the ceremony. Defence Secretary R K Singh said the decision marks 150 years of the song, which inspired Indians during the freedom movement. An Indian Air Force helicopter will fly over with a banner commemorating the anniversary. The celebrations will centre on 'Yuva Shakti' (youth power) and India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The government said the youth theme was planned before the recent student agitation at Jantar Mantar. Nineteen Indian students who won medals at international Olympiads have been invited. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has also been invited.

## Coverage

- livemint.com <https://www.livemint.com/news/india/independence-day-2026-red-fort-to-witness-first-ever-vande-mataram-rendition-on-15-august-11786376756423.html>
- ndtv.com <https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/vande-mataram-to-be-sung-at-red-fort-on-independence-day-for-1st-time-heres-why-11892347>

Tags: Independence Day, Red Fort, Vande Mataram, Viksit Bharat, youth achievers, Yuva Shakti
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