Kolkata, December 8 (Daily Kiran) – The family of Bankimchandra Chattopadhyay, the composer of ‘Vande Mataram’, appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative in Parliament on Monday to mark 150 years of this iconic song. The family said this recognition was long overdue and has given due respect to Bankimchandra’s historic contribution.
‘Vande Mataram’ was written in November 1875 and became an inspiration for freedom fighters during India’s independence movement.
Sajal Chattopadhyay, grandson of Bankimchandra Chattopadhyay, said the West Bengal government has neglected this great litterateur. He called the situation deeply shameful for Bengal and the Hindu community. “I salute the central government. Bankimchandra was the first graduate of the country, yet there is nothing named after him except his property. I believe that just as Rabindranath Tagore has universities named after him, every state should have a university named after Bankimchandra. What Prime Minister Modi said about him in Parliament was highly respectful,” he added.
The Chattopadhyay family’s response came after Prime Minister Modi initiated a discussion in Parliament on the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’.
Sajal Chattopadhyay also demanded that a ‘Bankim Bhavan’ be established in West Bengal, similar to the ‘Rabindra Bhavan’. He said cultural programs take place in Rabindra Bhavans, but there is no centre to promote Bankimchandra’s legacy. “In Parliament, ‘Jana Gana Mana’ is played in its original form, and ‘Vande Mataram’ is played instrumentally at the end. We want ‘Vande Mataram’ to be played in its original form as well,” he said.
It is notable that last month, Prime Minister Modi accused that in 1937, during the Congress session in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, important parts of ‘Vande Mataram’ were removed. He stated that such mistakes paved the way for the country’s partition and fragmented the national song.
(Daily Kiran) / Om Parashar
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
