Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that national song Vande Mataram is not just a song, but an expression of the soul of India. The Prime Minister today inaugurated the year-long commemoration of 150 years of the National Song Vande Mataram in New Delhi.

Addressing an event in national capital, Prime Minister Modi said that Vande Mataram is a mantra, an energy, a dream and a resolution. He said, the essence of Vande Mataram is Bharat, Maa Bharati, the eternal idea of Bharat. He said, Vande Mataram became the voice of country’s freedom struggle, a chant that echoed on the lips of every revolutionary, a voice that expressed emotions of every Indian. He pointed out that Vande Mataram embodies the devotion and spiritual dedication to Maa Bharati. The Prime Minister said this song connects us to country’s history, and inspires towards future. He lauded the collective singing of Vande Mataram as an experience beyond expression which stirs the heart. Mr Modi said that Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay started a clarion call for an Independent, United and Prosperous India through the song.

The Prime Minister also released a Commemorative Stamp and Coin on the occasion. He also launched the portal – “vandemataram150.in”, where citizens can upload their videos of singing the national song and earn a certificate.