We will perform group singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ outside the offices of MLAs who oppose it: Mangal Prabhat Lodha

‘Vande Mataram’ completes 150 years on November 7, and to mark this milestone, a celebration has been launched, under which group singing of the song will be held across educational institutions in the state. Minister Lodha inaugurated the celebrations by singing the song with students at Sharda Mandir School in Gamdevi, Mumbai, Monday.

Speaking to the media on the occasion, Lodha expressed strong displeasure at Abu Azmi’s remarks. He said, “Vande Mataram is not against any religion or community—it is a song that evokes pure patriotism and love for the nation. By opposing it, leaders like Azmi are committing an act of treason.”

He further stated that group singing at Sharda Mandir School was a fitting reply to those who insult ‘Vande Mataram’.

“With a spirit of nationalism, we will continue to say ‘Vande Mataram’. We will also perform group singing of the song in front of the offices of those who oppose it,” he announced, directly challenging the Congress and Samajwadi Party MLAs.

Lodha also explained to the students the historic and inspirational significance of ‘Vande Mataram’. He said, “This is not merely a song — it is a symbol of the inspiration that fuelled India’s freedom struggle. By saluting the martyrs through this song, the flame of patriotism will continue to burn brightly in every Indian heart.”

He mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is celebrating the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’ through various events across the country. Similarly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed government institutions and educational bodies across Maharashtra to organize group singing of the song.

As part of the celebrations, group singing, discussions, essay competitions, and lectures will be organised in every taluka of the state to spread awareness about the historical and cultural significance of ‘Vande Mataram’, Lodha added.

Sources in Congress said, “Nobody in our party opposed or showed any disrespect to Vande Matram. The BJP has this habit of raking up issues to communal divide the society.” From PM Narendra Modi to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, everybody triggers non issues to polarise society on Hindu versus Muslims for vote bank politics.

“In Assembly polls 2024, BJP came up with Ek Hain Tau Safe Hain and Batenga to Katenge. Now, they are building new theories around Vande Matram ahead of local bodies polls,” a Congress source said.

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