Vande Mataram, the national song is 150 years old since its first publication and is indeed a moment to cherish. Such symbolism has its positives — it reignites a sense of belonging and patriotism and reminds us of our cultural roots. However, the trend of a special debate devoted to the song raises questions about that intent and forces one to look beyond the realm of nationalism.
Vande Mataram was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1882 in Sanskrit mixed with Bengali and first appeared in his novel titled “Anandamath”. Subsequently, it resonated across the landscape of India and became a powerful symbol of unifying people, leading to the freedom movement. Today, it is India’s national song.
The song has very touching lyrics. Vande Mataram means I salute my motherland. The song personifies India as a mother and,, in a vivid expression, praises the beauty, strength, resilience, and the sacred bond of the people, and the nation, touching upon devotion and reverence. Words like “rich in water”, “full of fruits and crops” and “the pleasant breeze from the hill ranges” evoke emotion and a sense of pride among Indians.
When it was discussed in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, it was ironic that several legislators did not know the origins or full context of Vande Mataram and chose to play to the galleries. While the discussion rolled out, one was left bewildered that legislators were revolving around the political connotations, trying desperately to appease their bosses. The bottom line is that the relevance of the song would be lost if the intentions are merely political.
Secondly, while the song is available in various languages, including English, it does not have a Konkani translation, and there has been hardly any awareness or education on it. Let’s not forget that the song has a 150-year history. Awareness of the song could have reduced a symbolic gesture tag and built a genuine emotional connection. Instead of promoting superficial discussions, there is a need for comprehensive awareness campaigns, educational programmes, and dialogues that delve into the song’s historical significance, its meaning and relevance today.
Thirdly, one would still wonder why a national song became a priority in the Goa Legislative Assembly when there are so many pressing issues to resolve and so little time at hand. The common man is currently facing serious issues. Today, answers are being sought not only from the Oppostion MLAs but the ruling legislators too. Add to this a curtailed session of five days, of which one day was devoted to the Governor’s speech. It baffles the mind that the Birch tragedy has not got the discussion it deserved, nor have allied issues like nightclub illegalities and land conversions. Call it unfortunate, or otherwise, the calling attention motion on the Birch fire moved by Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Wednesday, could not be taken up because the legislator was not present in the house when it came up.
Vande Mataram’s 150th anniversary should be a time to bring people together, to foster peace, and to honour mother India collectively. However, celebrating these milestones cannot be at the cost of sidelining critical societal issues or exploring a political advantage. True patriotism lies not just in singing or discussing a song, but in understanding its true meaning and application.
