08/11/2025
Srinagar Municipal Corporation Celebrates 150th Year of ‘Vande Mataram’ with Patriotic Fervor
Srinagar, November 8, 2025:
The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) today celebrated the 150th year of the iconic patriotic song ‘Vande Mataram’ with great zeal and national fervor at the SMC Headquarters, Karan Nagar, Srinagar. The event was organized under the directions of the Commissioner, SMC / CEO, Srinagar Smart City Ltd., Mr. Faz L*l Haseeb (IAS), in sync with the instructions issued by the Divisional and District Administration. The celebration aimed to commemorate the historic legacy of the national song that continues to inspire generations with its message of love, unity, and devotion to the motherland.
The program began with the unfurling of the National Flag and the playing of the National Anthem, followed by the screening of a short film and the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’, presented with dignity and pride, creating an atmosphere charged with patriotic emotion. This was followed by remarks from dignitaries and officers of the Corporation, while representatives from the Department of Information also participated enthusiastically, expressing their respect and admiration for the song that played a vital role in shaping India’s freedom movement.
Mr. Suhail Ul Islam (JKAS), Joint Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, presided over the function and addressed the gathering. In his remarks, he highlighted that ‘Vande Mataram’ is not merely a song but a profound symbol of India’s unity, strength, and spiritual essence. He elaborated on its historical significance, explaining that the song was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, originally in Sanskrit, and later included in his celebrated novel Anandamath. Over time, ‘Vande Mataram’ became a rallying cry for freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence — a lyrical embodiment of devotion to the motherland and the spirit of sacrifice.
Mr. Suhail Ul Islam emphasized that the song’s message of “Mother as the Nation” continues to remind every citizen of their duty towards the country. He urged SMC officials to imbibe the spirit of patriotism, honesty, and dedication reflected in the song while serving the people of Srinagar. He also lauded the efforts of the organizers for hosting such a meaningful event that rekindles patriotic fervor among employees and connects them to the rich cultural heritage of India.
Among those addressing the gathering was Mr. Burhan (JKAS), Deputy Director, Department of Information, who also shared insights into the historical and emotional resonance of ‘Vande Mataram’. He noted that the song, adopted as the national song of India, continues to serve as a reminder of unity in diversity — binding people across regions, faiths, and languages in the shared spirit of nationhood. He commended SMC for organizing the celebration with such devotion and respect for the country’s cultural legacy.
Both dignitaries emphasized that such occasions reinforce collective responsibility, harmony, and national integrity — values that are essential for societal progress and nation-building.
Prominent officers and officials present on the occasion included Mr. Syed Abul Qasim, Joint Commissioner, SMC; Mr. Hamid Iqbal Mir, Joint Commissioner (Works); Mr. Sajad Kawoosa, Superintending Engineer (City Drainage Circle), SMC; Mr. Lateef Ahmad, Divisional Forest Officer, SMC; Mr. Imtiyaz Ahmad, Executive Engineer (City Roads); and Mr. Mudasir Hussain Banday, Chief Sanitation Officer, SMC, along with other officers and officials of the Corporation. Their participation added significance to the celebration and reflected the collective commitment of SMC towards fostering civic unity and patriotic values.
Mr. Suhail Ul Islam also commended the efforts made in arranging the event, extending appreciation to Mr. Firdous Ahmad Bhat, AEE, City Drainage Circle (Mech.); Mr. Haroon, PPO SMC; Mr. Hilal Ahmad Shah, ASG SMC; and Mr. Ab. Rashid Thoker, ASP SMC for their dedicated contributions. He also extended special thanks to Mr. Idrees Aqail, PRO SMC, and Mr. Altaf Hussain Mir, GIS Expert SMC, for their effective liaison and coordination that ensured the successful conduct of the program.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the singing of the National Anthem, marking an inspiring end to the inaugural day of celebrations. The celebration will continue till the 14th of November and will be observed across all 35 wards of SMC, featuring a series of cultural activities and community programs organized in collaboration with the Department of Culture to spread the message of unity, harmony, and national pride.
