Synopsis: The Lok Sabha will hold a special, multi-day discussion in the Winter Session to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the debate on Monday, 8 December. Parliament will also debate electoral reforms starting 9 December, with replies and further proceedings scheduled through 10 December.
Parliament Schedules Special Debate to Mark 150 Years of Vande Mataram
The Lok Sabha will hold a special debate to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram on Monday, 8 December. The discussion will be initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the House has allocated 10 hours for the debate.
Electoral Reforms Debate to Follow
A broad discussion on electoral reforms is scheduled for Tuesday, 9 December, with another 10 hours set aside for deliberations. The Union Law Minister, Arjun Ram Meghwal, is expected to reply to the debate on Wednesday, 10 December.
What to Expect from the Special Discussion
According to parliamentary sources, the special session on Vande Mataram will be a major highlight of the Winter Session. Lawmakers are likely to use the platform to:
- Reflect on the historical and cultural significance of Vande Mataram in India’s freedom struggle.
- Discuss the song’s role in shaping modern national identity and patriotic sentiment.
- Explore the relevance of Vande Mataram in contemporary India and ways to promote cultural heritage.
- Hear perspectives from MPs across parties and regions, including remarks by the Prime Minister.
Background: What Is Vande Mataram?
Vande Mataram is a patriotic song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first published in his novel Anandamath (1882). The song became a rallying cry during India’s independence movement and was widely sung at nationalist gatherings, processions and meetings. Over time it came to be regarded as the country’s national song and occupies a special place in India’s cultural memory.
Important historical and cultural notes:
- Authorship: Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay (also spelled Chatterjee), a leading Bengali writer and intellectual of the 19th century.
- Publication: First appeared in the novel Anandamath (1882) and quickly gained popularity among freedom fighters.
- Role in the freedom struggle: Adopted and sung widely by leaders and activists as an expression of patriotic fervour and unity.
- Cultural status: While India’s national anthem is Jana Gana Mana, Vande Mataram continues to be treated with reverence as the national song and is an integral part of many commemorations and ceremonies.
Recent Developments & Context
Prime Minister Modi launched a year-long celebration to mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram on 7 November in the national capital. The special parliamentary debate aims to build on that national observance and provide lawmakers an opportunity to revisit history, discuss cultural preservation, and consider educational and commemorative initiatives.
Why This Debate Matters
- It offers a national forum to reflect on India’s cultural heritage and the song’s historical role.
- It may prompt proposals for commemorative programs, educational outreach, and cultural events nationwide.
- The debate will allow MPs to articulate how intangible cultural symbols can be preserved while fostering inclusive national pride.
📌 Key Takeaway
The Lok Sabha’s dedicated discussion on 150 years of Vande Mataram (8 December) and the scheduled debate on electoral reforms (9–10 December) will be major highlights of the Winter Session. The special session provides a platform to revisit the song’s legacy, explore commemorative measures, and discuss how cultural memory can strengthen civic engagement.
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