At Lucknow event, CM Yogi Adityanath celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram, urging Indians to put national duty before self-interest.
Lucknow: Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, urged people on Friday to put their national responsibilities ahead of their own interests. He claimed that this is the true spirit of “Vande Mataram,” which, even after 150 years, still inspires India’s collective consciousness.
The timeless composition by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, he remarked during a celebration in Lucknow to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song, was more than just a song; it was a “sacred expression of India’s unity, spirit and duty.” “No particular deity, religion, or society worships Vande Mataram. It motivates all Indians to put their national responsibilities ahead of their own interests,” Adityanath remarked.
The chief minister drew a link between national duty and daily deeds, stating that a farmer growing crops for the country, a soldier protecting the borders under harsh circumstances, and a teacher teaching principles to kids all exemplify the actual meaning of Vande Mataram.
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“While we often talk about our rights, it is equally important to remember our duties,” Adityanath added, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on citizens’ duties on Constitution Day. These responsibilities can protect our current and future generations. Richly praising Chattopadhyay, Adityanath referred to him as “the visionary who gave India an eternal mantra of unity.” He claimed that the song, which was originally written in 1875, inspired revolutionaries and brought the country together against colonial rule, serving as a rallying cry for the Indian liberation fight.
“Freedom fighters sung Vande Mataram with bravery and faith despite tyranny. It made people feel proud of their country and rekindled India’s collective spirit,” he remarked.
The CM went on to say that the inclusiveness of the song is its strongest point. “Though written in Sanskrit and Bengali, Vande Mataram reflects the soul of all of India -” its culture, unity and timeless identity,” he stated.
“Vande Mataram became the heartbeat of every movement during the freedom struggle, representing India’s resolve to stand united beyond caste, religion, or region,” Adityanath added, recalling its historical significance.
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“Today, as we celebrate 150 years of Vande Mataram, we are not only honouring its creator but also reaffirming our commitment to the ideals it represents -” unity, selflessness and devotion to our motherland,” the chief minister stated.
“Uttar Pradesh’s progress over the past eight years reflects the expression of duty that Vande Mataram inspires in every citizen,” he said, concluding his remarks after congratulating the state’s citizens on the occasion.