Rons Bantwal

Mumbai, Aug 10: Palm Beach Road in Navi Mumbai is set to resonate with a powerful chorus of Vande Mataram on Independence Day, August 15, as the Vande Mataram Pratishthana, Navi Mumbai, organises a massive human chain and collective singing programme to mark the 150th anniversary of the composition of the immortal national song.

The patriotic event, being held under the theme ‘One Nation, One Voice’, will bring together citizens and patriots from across Navi Mumbai for a collective expression of national unity, social harmony and world peace.

The programme will be held on Saturday, August 15, from 10 am to 11.30 am on Palm Beach Road. Organisers have appealed to citizens to participate in large numbers and join the collective rendition of Vande Mataram, thereby sending out a message of unity and harmony.

Vande Mataram, the immortal creation of celebrated poet and novelist Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, occupies a unique place in India’s freedom struggle. It was not merely a song, but became, in the words of the organisers, the ‘heartbeat of an awakened India’ in its struggle for freedom.

During the movement against British rule, the song inspired millions of Indians with courage, unity, sacrifice and patriotism. Even today, the words Vande Mataram continue to evoke a deep sense of pride and devotion towards the motherland in the hearts of Indians.

As part of the 150th anniversary celebrations, participants will form a large human chain along Palm Beach Road and sing Vande Mataram together. Prayers will also be offered for national unity, social harmony and world peace.

The organisers said the programme seeks to make the historic anniversary of the song a memorable occasion and to once again awaken the spirit of patriotism among citizens. The sacred song, which celebrates the beauty, strength, prosperity and eternal spirit of the motherland, will provide the central theme for the gathering.

The programme is expected to witness participation from citizens across Navi Mumbai, particularly from Seawoods and Nerul, with families also being encouraged to attend.

The Vande Mataram Pratishthana, Navi Mumbai, has appealed to everyone to participate in the historic programme in large numbers and ‘blend their voices with the voice of the nation’ on Independence Day.

For further information about the programme and to reserve a place, citizens may contact Nityananda Naidu on 9699155189.

K Raghuram Acharya, one of the organisers, has urged citizens and patriots from Seawoods, Nerul and other parts of Navi Mumbai to join the programme in large numbers and make the 150th anniversary celebration of Vande Mataram a memorable expression of patriotism, national unity and collective pride.