Introduction: Vande Mataram Turns 150 Amid Political Storm
As India commemorates 150 years of its national song Vande Mataram, a fresh political controversy has erupted. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress of distorting the song’s original form by allegedly removing verses praising Goddess Durga under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru. The Congress has responded with historical references and counterclaims, reigniting a decades-old debate.
📜 Vande Mataram: A Song That Stirred a Nation
🕰️ Historical Origins of the National Song
- Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875, first published in Bangadarshan.
- Later included in his novel Anandamath (1882), which depicted Hindu monks fighting colonial rule.
- Rabindranath Tagore set the song to music, elevating it to a symbol of national pride.
🎶 Lyrics and Symbolism
- The original version contains six stanzas, with references to Mother Durga as a metaphor for the motherland.
- The first two stanzas are secular in tone, while later verses invoke Hindu deities.
🔥 BJP’s Allegation: Nehru “Sanitized” Vande Mataram
🗣️ CR Kesavan’s Claims
BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan alleged that:
- In 1937, Congress adopted only the first two stanzas, omitting those that praised Goddess Durga.
- Nehru wrote to Subhas Chandra Bose, stating the song’s religious references were “inappropriate” for a national anthem.
- The decision was made to appease communal sensitivities, particularly Muslim sentiments.
📄 Key Points from Kesavan’s Statement
- Nehru’s letter dated 1 September 1937 suggested disassociation of the song from religious imagery.
- A follow-up letter on 20 October 1937 claimed the song’s background could alienate Muslim citizens.
- BJP calls this a “historic blunder” and part of Congress’s communal agenda.
🔗 Read Kesavan’s full statement on IndiaTV
🛡️ Congress Fires Back: Vande Mataram Is Our Pride
🗨️ Mallikarjun Kharge’s Rebuttal
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge responded by:
- Highlighting the song’s role during the 1905 Bengal Partition and freedom movement.
- Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, who called it a “powerful war cry” uniting Hindus and Muslims.
- Emphasizing that Congress formally adopted Vande Mataram in 1937 under leaders like Nehru, Azad, Bose, and Tagore.
📚 Nehru’s Perspective
Kharge cited Nehru’s 1938 writings:
“For over 30 years, this song has been directly associated with Indian nationalism. Such songs rise organically, not by force.”
🏛️ RSS and BJP Under Scrutiny
🎯 Kharge’s Counterattack
- Accused RSS and BJP of never singing Vande Mataram or Jana Gana Mana in their offices.
- Claimed they prefer Namaste Sada Vatsale, which glorifies the RSS, not the nation.
- Alleged RSS avoided hoisting the national flag for 52 years and misused the Constitution.
🧠 Nehru vs Bose: Clash of Ideologies?
📬 Letters That Sparked Debate
- Nehru’s correspondence with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose reveals ideological differences.
- Bose supported the full version of Vande Mataram, while Nehru favored a secular adaptation.
🧩 Contextual Analysis
- The 1930s were marked by communal tensions.
- Congress aimed to unify diverse communities, possibly influencing Nehru’s stance.
🧨 Rahul Gandhi Dragged Into the Debate
🗯️ BJP’s Additional Accusation
CR Kesavan also targeted Rahul Gandhi, alleging:
- He continues Nehru’s “anti-Hindu mindset.”
- Quoted Rahul’s 2024 remark: “We are fighting against shakti,” interpreting it as anti-Hindu.
🎉 150 Years of Vande Mataram: Celebrations and Controversies
📅 PM Modi’s Nationwide Program
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a year-long celebration of Vande Mataram’s legacy.
- Events include mass singing, cultural exhibitions, and educational campaigns.
🏫 School Mandates Stir Debate
- Rajasthan and Maharashtra ordered mandatory singing of Vande Mataram in schools.
- SP leader Abu Azmi objected, stating Muslims bow only to Allah.
❓ FAQs About Vande Mataram Controversy
❓ Why is Vande Mataram controversial?
The song’s later stanzas invoke Hindu deities, which some argue are exclusionary in a secular nation.
❓ Did Nehru officially remove Durga stanzas?
Nehru favored a secular version, but Congress adopted only the first two stanzas in 1937.
❓ Is the full version of Vande Mataram banned?
No. The full version is not banned but is rarely used officially due to its religious references.
❓ What is the role of RSS in this debate?
Congress claims RSS avoids singing national songs; RSS maintains its own traditions.
❓ How is the government celebrating 150 years of Vande Mataram?
PM Modi announced year-long programs including mass singing and cultural events.
🧾 Conclusion: A Song, A Nation, A Debate That Endures
The Vande Mataram controversy underscores the complex interplay between nationalism, secularism, and political ideology in India. As the nation celebrates 150 years of its iconic song, the debate over its original verses and historical decisions continues to evoke strong reactions across party lines. Whether seen as a symbol of unity or a flashpoint of division, Vande Mataram remains deeply embedded in India’s cultural and political fabric.
External Source: Patrika Report
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