Hyderabad, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : BJP leader Perala Shekhar Rao has suggested that the Congress party should hold a referendum among its members regarding their support for “Vande Mataram.” Speaking in Hyderabad, he emphasized that this initiative would clarify how many Congress workers truly back the national song and what the broader societal sentiment is on the issue.
In an interview, Rao stated, “This matter should not be confined to just Congress. Many people across the country respect and uphold Vande Mataram. There are also numerous individuals within Congress who believe in it. The party should conduct a referendum among its members to determine if they support Vande Mataram and if society desires this.”
Rao stressed that Vande Mataram should not be viewed through the lens of any particular religion but should be understood as part of India’s heritage, culture, and civilization. He referenced India’s extensive history and cultural traditions, noting that the country’s legacy spans thousands of years.
He pointed out that the traditions of Indian civilization trace back to the Vedic era, encompassing significant narratives like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the eras of various kings and emperors. According to Rao, India’s historical depth far surpasses that of relatively newer nations like the United States, necessitating a broader understanding of the country’s cultural heritage.
Rao highlighted that Vande Mataram incorporates various symbols related to rivers, nature, culture, and deities. He argued that it should be seen not merely from a religious perspective but as an integral part of India’s civilization and cultural legacy. He believes that if Vande Mataram is understood in this context, it would prevent unnecessary disputes.
Furthermore, he criticized those who oppose the complete version of Vande Mataram, suggesting they are distancing themselves from Indian culture and society. Rao called for a deeper appreciation of the historical and cultural significance of Vande Mataram rather than creating unwarranted controversy.
Earlier, he accused Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi of distancing themselves from Vande Mataram, claiming that the Congress leadership only acknowledges select portions of the song.
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