Shiv Sena backs Geetanjali Angmo on inclusive interpretation of Vande Mataram

Krishna Heagade expressed support for poet Geetanjali Angmo's remarks on the national song Vande Mataram, describing her view as balanced and respectful. Angmo argued that the deities mentioned in the song—Lakshmi, Saraswati and Durga—should be seen as symbolic representations of wealth, knowledge and power, respectively. Heagade emphasized that India's cultural fabric embraces diverse expressions, noting that Hindus themselves have adopted Urdu ghazals and other art forms. Accordingly, citizens of all faiths should feel free to respect Vande Mataram without objections, as the anthem played a pivotal role in inspiring freedom fighters during the independence struggle. The Shiv Sena statement framed the song as a unifying force that transcends religious boundaries.