Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla today graced the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), Palace Compound, Imphal. The event was attended by several MLAs, the Chief Secretary, senior officials, and distinguished guests.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor described Vande Mataram, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, as more than just a song—calling it a powerful declaration of love and devotion to the motherland. He recalled how the hymn became the heartbeat of India’s freedom struggle, inspiring nationalist sentiment across the nation, and noted that its adoption by the Constituent Assembly in 1950 as the national song acknowledged its profound impact on India’s identity.

Reflecting on its enduring legacy, Governor Bhalla said that even after 150 years, the spirit of Vande Mataram continues to unite Indians across regions, languages, and faiths. He urged citizens to uphold its values of unity, peace, and progress and to draw strength from its timeless message in the journey toward building a strong and prosperous nation.

Highlighting Manipur’s proud tradition of patriotism and sacrifice, the Governor noted that the courage, resilience, and achievements of the people of Manipur—whether in history or in contemporary fields such as sports, arts, and culture—embody the essence of Vande Mataram.

The event also featured mass singing and choreographic presentations by Shri Shri Balmukunda Dev Music College, the Government Dance College, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy. The Governor praised their performances for vividly portraying the patriotic spirit of the song and commended the Department of Art & Culture for organising the celebration with dignity and grandeur.

He concluded by calling on all citizens to let Vande Mataram be not just a song, but a guiding pledge—dedicating themselves to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, a developed, united, and inclusive India.