As Vande Mataram marks its 150-year milestone, legendary director Subhash Ghai is rallying fans to connect with its deeper layers rather than just humming along. Sharing on Instagram, Ghai declared this a moment to celebrate not just the tune, but the timeless spirit it embodies.
‘Our national patriotic song reflects India’s soul and heritage,’ Ghai stated. He insisted on grasping the meaning of all six verses in Hindi and English to sing them with genuine sentiment. This isn’t casual advice from the showman behind hits like Lamhe and Pardes—it’s a patriotic nudge amid national pride.
The song’s origins trace to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s Anandamath in the late 1870s. Its Sanskrit verses praise the motherland’s power akin to Durga, while later lines paint vivid pictures of India’s landscapes and evoke unwavering devotion. Tagore’s music brought it to life, first sung at the 1896 Congress session, propelling it to the forefront of independence movements.
Historical echoes include its role in the 1947 Constituent Assembly opener and official status in 1950. Ghai balances his cinematic legacy with nurturing new voices at Whistling Woods, where budding filmmakers recently unveiled the Rocketship trailer—a project showcasing fresh creativity.
In an era of superficial nationalism, Ghai’s message cuts through: True patriotism demands understanding and heartfelt rendition of symbols like Vande Mataram.