New Delhi: As India prepares to mark the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram, the Congress party is expected to actively participate in the commemorative debate in the Lok Sabha, fielding several of its prominent leaders as speakers. Sources within the party indicated on Saturday that Congress’ deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, along with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Deepender Hooda, and A Bimol Akoijam, are likely to contribute to the debate, scheduled for Monday.

In addition, other Congress parliamentarians expected to speak include Praniti Shinde, Prashant Padole, Chamala Reddy, and Jyotsana Mahant, reflecting the party’s intent to represent diverse voices from different regions of the country. Party sources noted that these speakers will highlight the historical, cultural, and patriotic significance of Vande Mataram, while connecting its legacy to contemporary India and the spirit of youth and student engagement.

The Lok Sabha debate will be initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at noon on December 8, focusing on the song’s 150-year journey and its role in shaping India’s freedom struggle. In the Rajya Sabha, the discussion will commence a day later, on December 9, with Home Minister Amit Shah leading the debate. Alongside the Prime Minister, other key ministers, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, are expected to participate in the Lok Sabha session, contributing to what is anticipated to be a full-day deliberation on the national song’s significance.

Sources confirmed that the final speaker in the Lok Sabha debate is likely to be a representative from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), thereby framing the discussion as a cross-party reflection on Vande Mataram. The debate comes as part of a larger nationwide celebration, approved by a Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi on October 1, to commemorate the song’s 150th anniversary. These celebrations aim to emphasise Vande Mataram’s historic role in India’s freedom movement, particularly among students and youth, through a series of initiatives designed to deepen awareness of the song’s patriotic and cultural value.

Vande Mataram, composed in Sanskrit by Bankimchandra Chatterji, was first included in his novel Anandamath and later became a rallying cry for freedom fighters during India’s struggle against colonial rule. The song has since held a symbolic place in Indian history, representing national unity and the aspiration for independence. The anniversary celebrations in Parliament are expected to underscore these themes while connecting them to the current generation of Indians.

The Congress party’s participation, led by senior leaders like Gaurav Gogoi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, indicates the opposition’s intent to engage substantively in the debate, highlighting historical perspectives as well as contemporary reflections on the song’s role in inspiring patriotism. Sources noted that Congress leaders are expected to focus not only on the historical significance of Vande Mataram but also on its relevance in fostering national integration and promoting values of unity, diversity, and social responsibility.

The inclusion of MPs such as Praniti Shinde, Prashant Padole, Chamala Reddy, and Jyotsana Mahant reflects Congress’ strategy to bring regional representation to the discussion, ensuring that voices from across the country are heard. These parliamentarians are anticipated to speak on how the song resonates with India’s diverse communities and its continuing importance in inspiring civic responsibility, especially among young Indians.

The government has stressed that the celebration of the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram is not merely ceremonial but intended to create an educational and participatory experience for students nationwide. Initiatives under this programme include workshops, seminars, and cultural activities designed to instil an understanding of the song’s historical significance and its role in India’s independence movement. The Parliament debate forms a critical part of these initiatives, serving as a platform for both the ruling and opposition parties to reflect on the national song’s enduring relevance.

Prime Minister Modi, who will open the Lok Sabha debate, is expected to contextualise Vande Mataram within India’s freedom struggle and its symbolic value as a unifying force in the country. Following his remarks, ministers and other parliamentarians, including Congress speakers, will present their perspectives on the song’s historical, cultural, and patriotic significance. The debate is anticipated to cover not only the historical origins of Vande Mataram but also its role in contemporary India, especially in inspiring youth engagement, cultural pride, and national unity.

The Rajya Sabha debate, beginning with Home Minister Amit Shah, will similarly engage members of the upper house in discussions reflecting on the song’s relevance in India’s socio-cultural landscape. Together, the twin debates in Parliament are expected to provide a comprehensive reflection on the national song, integrating historical insights with modern interpretations.

The 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram is also being marked through various countrywide initiatives designed to reach students and youth, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the song’s role in India’s history and its continuing relevance in promoting patriotic values. By engaging both members of Parliament and the younger generation, the government seeks to ensure that the legacy of Vande Mataram remains a living part of India’s cultural and civic consciousness.

In conclusion, the Congress party, with leaders like Gaurav Gogoi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and other MPs, is poised to play an active role in the Lok Sabha debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. The participation of multiple voices across the political spectrum aims to enrich the discussion, highlight the song’s enduring legacy, and underscore its continuing relevance to India’s youth and citizens. The Parliament sessions on December 8 and 9 will not only commemorate the historical significance of Vande Mataram but also reaffirm its role as a symbol of unity, patriotism, and national pride in contemporary India.