The Rajya Sabha today resumed the discussion on the 150th Anniversary of the National Song Vande Mataram. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had initiated the discussion on Vande Mataram on Tuesday.
 
Concluding the discussion, Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha and Union Minister J P Nadda said, Vande Mataram is a mantra that awakens the soul of the nation and also gives an opportunity to connect with the culture of the country.
He said the song Vande Mataram is an emotional source of inspiration for everyone and a mantra to take the country forward with unity.
 
 
JP Nadda said this song has witnessed too many historic events that took place during the freedom movement. He said the national song energised everyone during the freedom struggle.
 
 On the allegation of Congress, Mr Nadda said, the government does not want to tarnish the image of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru through discussion on Vande Mataram. He said, the government’s aim is not to demean Mr Nehru but to keep history straight on record.
 
The Minister said, in 1937, under Jawaharlal Nehru’s presidency, and under pressure from communal elements, the sacred song was altered by discarding the stanzas.

JP Nadda alleged that the national song did not receive due respect post-Independence, as the then government was responsible for that situation.
 
The Minister said, over the past two days, more than 80 members of the House participated in the discussion on Vande Mataram, which shows how relevant this topic is.
He said that, through this discussion, the younger generation, who did not witness the freedom struggle, will gain a deeper understanding of the national song.