Jairam Thakur Hails Vande Mataram on 150th Anniversary, Criticizes Congress for ‘Disrespecting’ National Song

By A Staff Reporter

Shimla | On the 150th anniversary of India’s national song Vande Mataram, Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur on Thursday lauded the song’s historic contribution to the freedom struggle while criticizing the Congress for its alleged attempts to limit its prominence in the past.

Addressing an event in Shimla, Thakur said, “If the biggest impact was made in getting the country's independence, it was because of Vande Mataram. The song played a huge role in taking the freedom movement to its goal.” He emphasized that Vande Mataram served as a unifying force that inspired countless Indians to fight for freedom.

Thakur also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring that the nation remembers its cultural and historical roots. “I congratulate Prime Minister Modi for his way of thinking — that while progress is necessary for the country, the history of all the things that contributed to our journey should reach our future generations,” he said.

Taking a swipe at the state’s Congress government, Thakur remarked, “It would have been better if the state government here were a part of our event.” He further alleged that Congress had “tried to ban Vande Mataram for the leaders of the Muslim League,” adding that while the attempt was unsuccessful, it “created an obstacle in the respect that this song deserved.”