BJP’s Anurag Thakur Calls ‘Vande Mataram’ a National Imperative

BJP MP Anurag Singh Thakur has characterized the national song “Vande Mataram” as a vital force for patriotic citizens, while suggesting that it incites allergy among those engaged in divisive politics. Speaking during a Lok Sabha discussion on December 8, 2023, marking the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram,” Thakur highlighted its significance as more than a mere song, referring to it as a “maha mantra” that embodies the spirit of nationalism.

Thakur emphasized that “Vande Mataram” inspires energy in patriotic individuals, contrasting their sentiments with those he claims view the song as problematic. He remarked, “The British had a problem with ‘Vande Mataram,’ as did Mohammed Ali Jinnah, and now even his modern-day followers seem to have an issue with it.” He further stated that the song does not offend any religious beliefs, asserting its status as a celebration of India’s glory.

The BJP MP urged the Congress Party to acknowledge its historical missteps concerning “Vande Mataram.” He stated, “It is time for Congress to repent its past mistakes, which is why they are apprehensive.” Thakur articulated that the song represents a tradition of national love, asserting that Congress’s hesitance reflects its lack of commitment to national unity.

During the debate, he highlighted the absence of significant opposition figures, specifically naming Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiation of the discussion. Thakur claimed that those indifferent to “Vande Mataram” are often aligned with the Congress, the Communist Party, or the Muslim League. He extolled the phrase as timeless, saying, “These twin words ‘Vande Mataram’ have no beginning, no end. They are eternal and immortal.”

Additionally, Thakur criticized the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for its handling of “Vande Mataram.” He pointed out that in 2006, the UPA decided to mandate the song in educational institutions, but later succumbed to pressure from radical groups, changing the directive from “compulsory” to “voluntary.” He insisted that every Indian should honor the national flag and recite “Vande Mataram,” declaring it a “maha mantra” for nationalism. “Our country has faltered whenever we have neglected it,” he remarked.

In response to Thakur’s assertions, Arvind Sawant of Shiv Sena (UBT) raised questions about the BJP’s historical stance on the national flag and “Vande Mataram.” He noted that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP’s ideological parent organization, had not flown the national flag at its headquarters for fifty years nor had it sung “Vande Mataram” during that time, highlighting a significant shift in the party’s narrative.

The discussion surrounding “Vande Mataram” reflects ongoing tensions in Indian politics, particularly concerning issues of nationalism and identity. As debates continue, the song remains a focal point for discussions about patriotism and the role of political parties in shaping national sentiment.