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India’s Independence Day celebrations will witness a historic moment this year as Vande Mataram will be sung at the Red Fort for the first time. The national song will be performed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the iconic venue on August 15, marking a significant moment for Vande Mataram Independence Day celebrations.

Historic first at the Red Fort

Defence Secretary RK Singh said 2026 marks 150 years since Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote the iconic song. The government will therefore include Vande Mataram in the Red Fort ceremony to honour its long-standing legacy.

After the song is performed, Prime Minister Modi will unfurl the national flag and deliver his customary Independence Day address.

The move comes amid renewed focus on the national song. The BJP has argued that Vande Mataram deserves the same respect as the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana. The party has also supported the singing of all six stanzas rather than the two traditionally performed.

Political and religious debate

The government has recently taken several steps involving Vande Mataram. Parliament passed a bill in July that makes insulting the national song a criminal offence. The Centre has also directed that it should be the first song performed at government events.

Several states have introduced its mandatory singing in schools. However, some Muslim organisations have opposed singing the complete version, citing references to Hindu deities in certain verses.

Youth take centre stage

This year’s Independence Day theme will focus on young Indians and their contribution towards making India a developed nation by 2047.

RK Singh said the decision to highlight youth contributions came before the recent student protests over alleged question paper leaks. He stressed that the theme was not a response to the demonstrations at Jantar Mantar.

According to Singh, young people will play a crucial role in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat because they will contribute to the country’s development while also benefiting from it.

India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, with Prime Minister Modi leading the national celebrations from the Red Fort. The inclusion of Vande Mataram adds another historic element to this year’s ceremony and places the song at the centre of the Vande Mataram Independence Day celebrations.

FAQs

Q1. What is special about Vande Mataram Independence Day celebrations?

A. Vande Mataram will be sung at the Red Fort for the first time during the August 15 Independence Day ceremony.

Q2. Why will Vande Mataram be sung at the Red Fort?

A. 2026 marks 150 years since Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote the national song, prompting the government to honour its legacy.

Q3. What is the theme of this year’s Independence Day?

A. The celebrations will highlight the contributions of young people towards making India a developed nation by 2047.

Q4. When is India’s Independence Day celebrated?

A. India celebrates Independence Day every year on August 15.