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Vande Mataram played at Red Fort for first time
Vande Mataram was rendered at the Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations for the first time, with an Army band playing the tune as guests sang along. Prime Minister Narendra Modi then…
The Story in Brief
Vande Mataram was rendered at the Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations for the first time, with an Army band playing the tune as guests sang along. Prime Minister Narendra Modi then hoisted the national flag, followed by the national anthem. The event also marked 150 years of the national song, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875 and adopted by the Constituent Assembly in 1950.
The Federal, citing PTI, reported that two Mi-17 helicopters later showered flower petals, with one carrying the national flag and another a Vande Mataram flag. Modi also outlined his Sapt Dhara vision, covering manufacturing, agriculture, technology, logistics, defence, the green and blue economy, and India’s soft power.
The Indian Opinion
The first performance is being presented by some as proof of a new national consensus, while others may treat it as a political signal. Both readings can overreach. Vande Mataram has a long place in the freedom movement, but its ceremonial status should not erase the distinct role of Jana Gana Mana or pressure citizens into displays of patriotism. The real test is whether future ceremonies preserve choice while respecting both national symbols.
Sources (3): hindustantimes.com, thefederal.com, timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 3 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 3 sources.
