Who Wrote the National Song Vande Mataram?

Vande Mataram was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. Firstly, it was written in Bengali Language and then it was also published in Hindi. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee was a Bengali writer, poet, and Journalist, who composed songs for our freedom fighters. The national song is given the same importance as the national anthem (Jan-Gan-Man) as per declared by the president of India. In this post, we will provide you with all the necessary information about the Indian national song Vande Mataram.

Vande Mataram

Historical Background of India’s National Song

“Vande Mataram” was originally composed as a poem by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in the late 19th century. Bankim Chandra, a prominent Bengali writer and novelist, wrote this hymn in Sanskrit and Bengali. He included the song in his novel Anandamath, which was published in 1882.

Anandamath is a historical novel that is set against the backdrop of the Bengal famine of 1770 and the resistance against British rule in India. The novel depicts the story of a group of Sannyasis (Hindu ascetics) who fight against the oppressive British regime. Vande Mataram is sung by these Sannyasis as they pledge their devotion to the motherland.

Official Recognition of India’s National Song

The Indian National Congress, during its session in 1905, adopted Vande Mataram as the national song. Unlike Jana Gana Mana, Vande Mataram has not been officially recognized as India’s national song at the national level. However, it is important to note that it holds a significant and respected place in the country’s cultural and historical heritage.

Lyrics of Vande Mataram in English and Hindi

Here we are providing the lyrics of Vande Mataram in English and Hindi:

Hindi:

वन्दे मातरम्
सुजलां सुफलां मलयजशीतलाम्
शस्यशामलां मातरम् ।
शुभ्रज्योत्स्नापुलकितयामिनीम्
फुल्लकुसुमितद्रुमदलशोभिनीम्
सुहासिनीं सुमधुरभाषिणीम् ।
सुखदां वरदां मातरम् ।

English:

Vande Mataram
Sujalam Sufalam Malayaja Shitalam
Shasyashyamalam Mataram ।
Shubhrajyotsna Pulakita Yamini
Phullakusumita Drumadala Shobhini
Suhasini Sumadhura Bhashini ।
Sukhadam Varadam Mataram ।

Code of Conduct for Singing Vande Mataram

The national song of India Vande Mataram is a patriotic song. While there isn’t a strict code of conduct for singing it, there are certain practices and guidelines that are typically followed as a mark of respect for this iconic song. Here are some key points to consider when singing Vande Mataram:

• When singing Vande Mataram in a formal or public setting, it is customary to stand up as a mark of respect. This is similar to the practice of standing during the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.”
• When singing Vande Mataram at formal or official events, consider dressing appropriately in a manner that shows respect for the occasion.
• Sing this song with due respect for our nation. It represents adoration and fidelity to the motherland.
• Before singing the national song. We should go through the lyrics first. This not only ensures that you sing the song correctly but also allows you to understand its meaning and significance better.

Difference Between National Song and National Anthem

The primary differences between a national song and a national anthem lie in their form, purpose, and official recognition. The following are the key distinctions between a national song and a national anthem:

Parameter	National Anthem	National Song
Form and Composition	A national anthem is typically a musical composition or song that represents a country’s identity and is meant to be performed in a specific musical style. It is usually characterized by its melody and lyrics, which are often simple and easily recognizable.	A national song can take various forms, including songs with lyrics and melodies, poems, or other literary works that express a country’s cultural or patriotic sentiments. These may or may not have a designated musical composition.
Official Recognition	A national anthem is officially recognized by a country’s government as a symbol of the nation. It holds a formal and legally designated status.	A national song may or may not have official recognition by the government. In some cases, it may be informally acknowledged as a symbol of national identity.

National Anthem of India

The national anthem of India, “Jana Gana Mana,” was written by the renowned Bengali poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. He composed the lyrics of “Jana Gana Mana” in Bengali in 1911. The song was originally written as a tribute to the divine for its blessings upon India and was later adopted as the national anthem of India when the country gained independence in 1947.

What is the Limit of National Anthem Song?

There is no specific time limit for the national anthem song in most countries, as the duration can vary depending on how it is sung or performed. However, the length of a national anthem’s performance is typically governed by tradition, practicality, and the nature of the event at which it is being sung.

For example, during official ceremonies, sporting events, or public gatherings, a shorter version of the national anthem is often performed to keep the proceedings concise and to maintain a sense of uniformity and respect. In many cases, only the first stanza of the national anthem is sung.

FAQs on Indian National Song Vande Mataram

What is a national song?

A national song is a patriotic or cultural composition that holds special significance for a particular country. It often expresses love, pride, and devotion to the nation and its heritage.

Is a national song the same as a national anthem?

No, a national song and a national anthem are not the same. A national anthem is a specific type of national song with a formal designation and is usually played at official events and ceremonies. A national song may have cultural or historical importance but may not have the same official recognition.

In which year Vande Mataram was declared as the national song of India?

In 1937, Vande Mataram was designated as India’s National Song. We Indians were inspired to fight for our freedom by the Bengali poet Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s song Vande Mataram, which was written in Sanskrit.

What is the role of a national song?

The role of a national song is to inspire a sense of patriotism, unity, and cultural identity among the people of a nation. It often reflects the country’s history, values, and cultural diversity.

Who typically writes national songs?

National songs are often written by renowned poets, lyricists, or musicians who have a deep connection to the country and its culture. They may be inspired by historical events, cultural symbols, or the spirit of the nation.

Which novel was the inspiration for our national song, Vande Mataram?

‘Vande Mataram’ was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the 1870s as a patriotic hymn. Later, it was incorporated into his book Anandamath and was a popular song in Bengal during the Swadeshi movement.

Are national songs officially recognized?

National songs may or may not be officially recognized by a country’s government. Recognition depends on the country’s laws and cultural practices. National anthems are typically officially recognized, while national songs may have varying levels of recognition.