Vande Mataram to be performed at Red Fort for first time

For the first time, the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ will be performed from the ramparts of the Red Fort during India’s Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The performance will take place as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the venue, preceding the unfurling of the national flag and the singing of the national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’.

Government officials and political leaders have characterized the decision as a way to honor the song’s historical role in the independence movement and its legacy as written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. Defence Secretary RK Singh noted that the inclusion aligns with the upcoming 150th anniversary of the song in 2026.

The move follows recent legislative actions, including a July parliamentary bill that criminalizes insulting the national song. While supporters view the inclusion as a tribute to cultural heritage and freedom fighters, the decision has faced criticism from some organizations regarding specific verses and debates concerning the protocol of singing the national song before the national anthem.