150 Years Of Vande Mataram: Indian High Commission Showcases Nation’s Cultural Heritage In London

The Indian High Commission in London hosted a grand ceremony on 7 November to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram, India’s national song.

The event, held at India House, showcased the vibrancy of Indian culture and the timeless spirit of patriotism that the song embodies.

India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, opened the event with an inspiring speech highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Vande Mataram.

He described the song as a ‘symbol of India’s unity, confidence, and self-reliance’, noting that its message remains as relevant today as it was during the freedom struggle.

Doraiswami emphasised that Vande Mataram continues to inspire every Indian to work with integrity, innovate, and dedicate themselves to the nation’s progress.

A Cultural Showcase of Music and Dance

The evening came alive with mesmerising performances reflecting India’s diverse artistic heritage.

Guinness World Record holder Siddi Kapshikar delivered a moving rendition of the complete Vande Mataram, earning a standing ovation from the audience.

The performance was followed by an enchanting Bharatanatyam presentation by students of the Lingeshwara Natyalaya.

Dancers Nipra Wamankar and Oorja Akshara from King’s College London captivated spectators with their elegant Kathak performance, while artists Chinu Kishore and Shreyashi Deb Roy blended Sattriya and Odissi dance styles to create a graceful fusion that symbolised India’s cultural unity.

Organisers felicitated each performer with a certificate of appreciation for their remarkable contribution to the celebration.

A Moment of Pride for Indian Art and Culture

The event reflected the growing prominence of Indian art and culture on the international stage.

Through music, dance, and heartfelt tributes, the celebration at India House became a vibrant expression of India’s soft power and its timeless message of unity in diversity.

Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay composed Vande Mataram in 1875 in a blend of Sanskrit and Bengali and later included it in his celebrated novel Anandamath.

The song soon emerged as a rallying cry for freedom fighters during India’s struggle against British colonial rule.

Meaning ‘I bow to thee, Mother’, the song expresses deep devotion and pride for the motherland—symbolising India’s eternal spirit of sacrifice, unity, and love for the nation.

As the Indian High Commission’s grand celebration in London demonstrated, Vande Mataram continues to resonate across generations, reminding every Indian—both at home and abroad—of their shared heritage and collective aspiration towards a self-reliant and united India.

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