The Indian People’s Forum (IPF) UAE hosted a commemorative event in Dubai marking 150 years of the iconic national song Vande Mataram, bringing together senior diplomats, community leaders, cultural artistes and members of the Indian diaspora. Held under the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram – Celebrating India’s Spirit, Heritage, and National Awakening”, the programme highlighted the song’s historic role in India’s freedom movement and its enduring significance as a symbol of unity and national identity. The event opened with the national anthems of the UAE and India, followed by an audio-visual presentation tracing the song’s journey from its literary origins to its role in the independence struggle.
In a pre-recorded address, Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Vande Mataram, which united millions during the freedom movement, continues to inspire India’s progress during Amrit Kaal as the country works towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Chief Guest and Rajya Sabha MP Arun Singh highlighted the role of organisations such as IPF in strengthening national identity among overseas Indians. He said the Indian diaspora has emerged as an important pillar of the country’s global growth story and linked the spirit of Vande Mataram with India’s vision of a developed nation.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr. Deepak Mittal, described Vande Mataram as “not just a combination of words, but a sacred mantra, an unyielding energy, a magnificent dream, and a collective resolve that powered India’s freedom struggle.” He said the song united people across linguistic, regional and cultural divides and continues to inspire national pride among Indians worldwide. Consul General of India in Dubai Satish Kumar Sivan underscored the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage within the diaspora and encouraging younger generations to remain connected to their roots.
Welcoming the gathering, IPF UAE President Jitendra Vaidya reflected on the enduring relevance of Vande Mataram in strengthening the emotional and cultural bonds of overseas Indians. The programme featured a performance by singer Sucheta Satish, who rendered Vande Mataram in eight languages, including Arabic, and a dance presentation by Arti Agarwal and her team.
The event concluded with a collective rendition of Vande Mataram. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee penned Vande Mataram in 1875, later publishing it in his 1882 novel Anandamath. The song became one of the defining rallying cries of India’s freedom movement. The 150th anniversary is being observed across India and by Indian communities worldwide in recognition of its enduring cultural and historical legacy.
