Bihar Marks 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’ with Patriotic Cultural Programme

Under the joint aegis of the Department of Arts and Culture, Bihar, and the Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir, a patriotic program was organized to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song "Vande Mataram." The program was inaugurated by the Honorable Minister, Shri Arun Shankar Prasad, by lighting a lamp.

Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, Additional Secretary, Planning and Development Department, Shri Pranav Kumar, Secretary, Arts and Culture Department, Mrs. Ruby, Director (Cultural Affairs), Shri Mahmood Alam, Joint Secretary, Department, and Ms. Kahkasha, Deputy Secretary, were present on the occasion, along with other dignitaries.

The program began with a welcome to the honorable guests, the presentation of bouquets, and a salute by the Accounts and Guide Band teams. Guests then visited an exhibition related to Vande Mataram.

In his address, Honorable Minister Shri Arun Shankar Prasad said that today is a moment of pride for all of us. "Vande Mataram" has been the inspiration for the country's freedom struggle and has instilled courage and unity among the countrymen. He informed that various programs are being organized across the country from November 7, 2025, to November 7, 2026, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram." He called on everyone to unite and take India to the highest heights.

On this occasion, Secretary of the Department of Arts and Culture, Shri Pranav Kumar, in his address, said that "Vande Mataram" is not just a song, but the soul of India and a source of inspiration for the freedom movement. This song played a crucial role in uniting the countrymen, and even the British had to acknowledge its power. He said that preserving one's culture and identity is the foundation of a nation's progress.

Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, Additional Secretary of the Department of Planning and Development, said in her address that the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram" provides an opportunity for all of us to unite and remember our duties to the nation. Citing Lord Rama's saying, "Janani Janmabhoomi Is Swargadapi Gariyasi," he highlighted the importance of the motherland and said that a nation is defined by its people.

Following the Honorable Minister's address, a mass recitation of "Vande Mataram" was performed, with enthusiastic participation from all present.

During the program, Secretary Shri Pranav Kumar honored the Honorable Minister and other guests with mementos. Following this, a presentation (PPT) related to Vande Mataram was shown, highlighting the song's role during the freedom struggle.

Finally, the Folklore Department of the Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir presented patriotic songs such as "Himadri Tung Shrung Se..." and "Aaj Unki Jai Bolo..." and concluded the program with a heartfelt cultural dance based on the freedom struggle.

The cultural program was coordinated and directed by composer and director Manmohan Ojha, and the stage was successfully hosted by Soma Chakraborty.