Assembly lights up in hues of Tricolour

The Delhi Legislative Assembly on Friday celebrated the 150th anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s iconic composition ‘Vande Mataram’ with a grand ceremony that featured the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and cultural performances evoking the spirit of patriotism.

Addressing the gathering, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta described ‘Vande Mataram’ as “the soul of India and a song that unites 140 crore hearts in one voice of pride and devotion”.

He said the commemorative plaque installed at the Assembly would serve as a lasting tribute to the anthem that ignited India’s freedom struggle. Gupta said Bankim Chandra Chatterjee composed the song on November 7, 1875, inspired by the pain of colonial subjugation.

It later featured in ‘Anandamath’ (1882), after which it became a symbol of patriotic awakening. “This anthem transcends politics, religion, and region — it belongs to 140 crore Indians, symbolising our collective spirit, unity and pride,” he said.

Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht called the celebration a moment of immense pride, emphasising that ‘Vande Mataram’ continued to inspire generations with its message of unity and sacrifice. The event featured performances by artistes from the Sahitya Kala Parishad, whose music and dance sequences brought alive the emotion and energy of the national song.

As part of the commemoration, the Delhi Assembly building was illuminated in the colours of the Tiranga, symbolising national unity and pride.