Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 08 November 2025
As part of the year-long commemoration of 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’, celebrated under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Directorate of Art & Culture, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, organised a mass singing of the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ on November 7, 2025, at the auditorium of Tagore Government College of Education (TGCE).
The Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Art & Culture), A&N Administration, Ms. Chanchal Yadav, IAS, inaugurated the function as the chief guest by lighting the traditional oil lamp in the presence of Ms. Purva Garg, IAS, Secretary (Shipping), Ms. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, Secretary (Art & Culture), officials, and students. The dignitaries, along with the students, joined in the mass singing of the national song, filling the auditorium with patriotic fervour.
The gathering also witnessed a live screening of the mass singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ from New Delhi and the address by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, streamed as part of the national celebrations.
In her welcome address, Ms. Jyoti Kumari highlighted that the 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’ marks a national commemorative initiative celebrating the enduring spirit of the song and its significant role in India’s freedom movement. She remarked that “‘Vande Mataram’ is not just a song but the collective consciousness of India — a rallying cry that united freedom fighters during the struggle for Independence.”
Adding colour and emotion to the event, artistes of Sur Saptak presented soulful renditions of ‘Vande Mataram’ and other patriotic songs, while performers from Dance Nitya Academy captivated the audience with a patriotic dance performance. The venue came alive with patriotic spirit as music and dance blended seamlessly in tribute to the timeless national song.
A screening of a documentary film and an exhibition depicting the 150-year history of ‘Vande Mataram’ were also organised at TGCE as part of the commemorative programme.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Kanak Radha Chatterjee, Assistant Director (Art & Culture).
