New Delhi, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, a historic event will take place at the Red Fort on August 15, 2026. For the first time, the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ will be presented in its entirety. This special performance marks the 150th anniversary of the song’s composition and will feature all six stanzas.
The ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will see ‘Vande Mataram’ performed before the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana.’ Traditionally, only the first two verses of the national song have been presented during Independence Day celebrations. However, this year, the complete version will be included, breaking from tradition. New guidelines will prioritize the full rendition of the national song before the national anthem at official ceremonies.
This grand event aims to honor the 150-year legacy of ‘Vande Mataram’ while celebrating the energy, aspirations, and significant contributions of the youth in the journey towards a ‘developed India’ by 2047.
During the event, the Indian Air Force will shower flowers from MI-17 helicopters, flying with a special flag inscribed with ‘Vande Mataram.’
Recently, Parliament passed the Prevention of Insult to National Honors (Amendment) Bill, which provides legal protection to ‘Vande Mataram’ against acts of disrespect, placing it on equal legal footing with the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana.’
The DMK party opposed this bill in the Lok Sabha, leading to a political controversy. They accused the government of using the national song to ‘divide the nation.’ However, the BJP defended the amendment, stating it would ensure that Indian citizens can express respect for ‘Vande Mataram’ without any hindrance.
It is noteworthy that ‘Vande Mataram’ was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee on November 7, 1875. The national song is considered a significant source of inspiration for the Indian independence movement. Interestingly, it was composed in a blend of Sanskrit and Bengali. The song was first published in 1882 in his famous novel ‘Anandamath,’ where it is sung by a monk.
Regarding the Independence Day program, upon arrival at the Red Fort, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defense Sanjay Seth, and Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh will welcome the Prime Minister. The Defense Secretary will introduce the Prime Minister to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Rajesh Sethi. Following this, the GOC will escort the Prime Minister to the ‘Saluting Base,’ where a joint guard from the armed forces and Delhi Police will present a ‘General Salute.’ The Prime Minister will then inspect the ‘Guard of Honor.’
The ‘Guard of Honor’ will consist of one officer and 24 soldiers each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police, commanded by Additional DCP Vineet Kumar. After inspecting the guard, the Prime Minister will proceed to the platform at the Red Fort to hoist the national flag.
After the flag hoisting, the tricolor will receive a ‘national salute.’ An army band, consisting of one JCO and 25 other ranks, will play the tune of ‘Vande Mataram,’ and everyone present at the Red Fort will sing the national song. Following this, the national anthem will be sung, after which the Prime Minister will address the nation.
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