Fri Nov 07 07:18:24 UTC 2025: News Article:
Congress Celebrates 150th Anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram,’ Criticizes BJP and RSS
New Delhi, November 7, 2025 – On the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, “Vande Mataram,” Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge issued a statement praising the song’s role in India’s freedom struggle. Kharge emphasized that “Vande Mataram,” composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, embodies the spirit of Bharat Mata and celebrates India’s unity and diversity. He highlighted the song’s first public performance at the 1896 Congress session and its subsequent significance as a rallying cry against British rule.
Kharge also took the opportunity to criticize the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), alleging that they have historically avoided singing “Vande Mataram” and “Jana Gana Mana,” the national anthem, in their gatherings. He accused the RSS of supporting the British during the independence movement and promoting divisive ideologies.
The Congress party, Kharge stated, takes immense pride in both “Vande Mataram” and “Jana Gana Mana,” reaffirming its unwavering faith in the song as a symbol of India’s unity and spirit. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh added historical context, highlighting Rabindranath Tagore’s crucial role in establishing the song’s place in Indian public life.
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