Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called upon citizens to make the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ memorable. He emphasized the song’s vibrant depiction of India and urged people to pass its values to future generations.
Addressing the nation via his monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi announced numerous programmes across India to celebrate this significant milestone. ‘Vande Mataram’ was initially penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first rendered in 1896 by Rabindranath Tagore.
In his engaging 30-minute address, Modi highlighted several citizen-led initiatives from different parts of the country. He spoke on efforts to revive mangroves in Gujarat, the innovative concept of Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and the significant restoration of lakes in Bengaluru.
Modi praised paramilitary forces, particularly the BSF and CRPF, acknowledging their commitment to including Indian dog breeds such as Rampur Hounds, Mudhol Hounds, Mongrels, Kombai, and Pandikona in their operations.
He pointed out that a Mudhol Hound had recently secured accolades at an international competition, exceeding the performance of foreign breeds. “Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” the Prime Minister noted.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” he remarked during the national radio address.
Modi also announced that select Indian dog breeds will participate in a parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31.
The Prime Minister recognized the hard work of farmers in Koraput, Odisha, cultivating coffee with great dedication. He mentioned how this initiative has transformed the lives of many, especially local women.
“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he asserted, highlighting its global acclaim.
In another enlightening segment, Modi remarked on how social media and digital culture have revitalized Sanskrit. He cited Yash Salunke, a young innovator teaching Sanskrit through engaging reels.
He extended warm wishes for the upcoming Chhath Puja, emphasizing its representation of India’s social unity and spiritual resonance.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he stated, urging citizens to engage in the festivities.
Furthermore, reflecting on Operation Sindoor, Modi expressed pride in the national campaign, especially in regions previously affected by Maoist conflict. He highlighted how joy and hope now flourish in areas once engulfed in violence.
Remembering the tribal hero Komaram Bheem, Modi commended his battle against the oppressions of the Nizam of Hyderabad, describing him as a symbol of courage and resistance.
Modi also honored Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose birth anniversary — Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas — falls on November 15, observing that numerous luminaries from tribal communities deserve recognition and inspiration.
“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, there are many other great luminaries in our tribal communities. I urge everyone to read about them and draw inspiration,” he concluded.
