India marks 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ with a historic first at the Red Fort during the 80th Independence Day celebrations


Prime Minister Narendra Modi today led the nation in celebrating its 80th Independence Day from the Red Fort, calling the rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ from its historic ramparts a landmark moment.
After unfurling the Tricolour and receiving the ceremonial salute, Modi paid tribute to freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence. He remembered Mahatma Gandhi, revolutionaries and countless Indians whose struggle shaped the country’s freedom movement.
Highlighting the significance of the occasion, the Prime Minister said that for the first time since Independence, ‘Vande Mataram’ was echoing from the Red Fort on August 15, describing it as a historic moment for everyone witnessing the ceremony.
This year’s celebrations carry special significance as India marks 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s iconic composition that became deeply associated with the freedom struggle.
The celebrations also focus on Yuva Shakti and India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2047. The ceremony featured a 21-gun salute, performances centred on ‘Vande Mataram’ and participation by around 2,500 armed forces cadets and My Bharat volunteers.