Puducherry: Pondicherry University commemorated the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram with a grand celebration led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. P. Prakash Babu. Around 300 students, faculty members, and staff joined in a mass rendition of the song, honouring its enduring role in India's cultural and patriotic legacy.

The event began with the collective singing of Vande Mataram and a live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address marking the national observance. The Prime Minister highlighted the song's power to unite generations through its message of devotion and resilience.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Babu described Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875, as “the heartbeat of India's freedom struggle” that inspired courage and unity among millions. He urged students to uphold its spirit through knowledge, innovation, and ethical leadership, saying, “Our freedom was hard-earned and must be zealously protected.”

The celebration concluded with a call for renewed commitment to nation-building, with the Vice-Chancellor encouraging the university community to contribute toward a progressive, inclusive, and united India.