'Vande Mataram 'to be played at Red Fort ahead of PM Modi's Independence Day speech

New Delhi. India's 80th Independence Day is going to be historic in many ways this time. The main function from the ramparts of the Red Fort on 15th August 2026 will mark the beginning of a new tradition that will be witnessed for the first time after Independence. Just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address, there will be a mass rendition of the national song 'Vande Mataram' and the special thing is that it will be presented with all its six verses.

So far, the official rendition of the National Anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' has been the highlight of the main Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. But this time 'Vande Mataram' has been given a special place at the beginning of the ceremony. During the freedom movement, this song became a great medium to awaken the spirit of patriotism and struggle among the countrymen.

Why is this change happening?

The historical coincidence of 2026 is the biggest reason behind this decision. This year marks 150 years of the composition of 'Vande Mataram'. This timeless work of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was originally part of his novel 'Anandamath', but over time it became a powerful symbol of India's freedom movement and patriotism.

The announcement was made by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at a press conference. He said that during the freedom struggle, 'Vande Mataram' had created enthusiasm and zeal among millions of Indians. On the occasion of its 150th anniversary, it has been decided to pay special tribute to it from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

'Vande Mataram 'gets legal protection

This year, another important change related to the ceremony has come to the fore. After the amendment in the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, it has come to the fore that 'Vande Mataram' will be given the same legal protection as the national anthem. Under this, there will be a provision of legal action for deliberately obstructing its singing or insulting it.

From Heritage to Developed India - Dual Theme

This time the theme of the Independence Day celebration has tried to connect both the past and the future of India. The event will have two major focuses - 150 years of 'Vande Mataram "and the role of youth power in achieving the goal of' Developed India @2047."

That is, this time the stage of the Red Fort will not only remember the legacy of the freedom struggle, but also the dream of the coming India and the role of the youth in it.

There will be many attractions at the event.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the 13th consecutive time on August 15. After the flag hoisting, a 21-gun salute will be given as per tradition.

The showering of flowers during the ceremony will also be part of the attraction. A helicopter of the Indian Air Force will be seen flying in the sky with a special flag to mark the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'.

In view of the possible rain in Delhi, preparations have also been intensified at the Red Fort premises. Special cleaning of drains and sewage system of the premises is being done so that even in case of bad weather, there is no hindrance in organizing the function.

This year's Independence Day is therefore going to be not just a national festival, but a memorable occasion connecting India's historical heritage, patriotism and the future of developed India on one platform.