With Independence Day 2026 just around the corner, India is once again preparing to celebrate the symbols and songs associated with the country’s freedom struggle. This year is particularly significant for Vande Mataram, which completes 150 years in 2026. But do you know where India’s National Song first appeared? (Image: Sebaynes/Wikimedia Commons)

Vande Mataram first appeared in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Anandamath. The song was incorporated into the novel, which was first published in book form in 1882. (Image: Bankim Chandra Chandra Chattopadhyay/Wikimedia Commons)

The words “Vande Mataram” broadly mean “I bow to thee, Mother” or “I salute you, Mother”. In the song, the mother is portrayed as the motherland. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Anandamath is a historical novel set against the backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion in 18th-century Bengal. The novel deals with themes of patriotism, sacrifice and resistance. Vande Mataram is generally dated to 1875, when Bankim Chandra wrote it. It was later incorporated into Anandamath, which was published as a book in 1882. Over time, Vande Mataram moved beyond the pages of the novel and became a powerful patriotic song. It was widely used during India’s freedom movement and became a rallying cry against British rule. (Image: Sodacan/Wikimedia Commons)

Vande Mataram was first sung at an Indian National Congress session in 1896 in Calcutta. Rabindranath Tagore sang it at the session. After Independence, Vande Mataram was given the status of India’s National Song. The Constituent Assembly recognised its special position alongside the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana. (Image: Georges Chevalier/Wikimedia Commons)

Vande Mataram is India’s National Song, while Jana Gana Mana is the National Anthem. Both have an important place in India’s national history and are associated with the country’s freedom movement. (Image: PTI)

The year 2026 marks 150 years of Vande Mataram. As part of Har Ghar Tiranga 2026, the government has announced celebrations dedicated to the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, including mass singing and initiatives highlighting the history of the National Song. (Image: Instagram/@ministryofculturegoi)