Sudha Murty Hopes Next Generation Connects With Vande Mataram

December 12, 2025

NEW DELHI, Dec 12, 2025 — Celebrated author, philanthropist, and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty has expressed hope that the next generation of Indians will connect with the national song, Vande Mataram, recognizing its importance in the country’s history and cultural heritage. She emphasized that the song continues to symbolize unity, patriotism, and pride in India’s freedom struggle.

Murty, who has been vocal about education and values-based learning, said she personally enjoyed singing Vande Mataram as a child and remembers the emotional and motivational impact it had on students during her school days.

Youth Engagement: Preserving a Historical Legacy

Speaking outside Parliament, she remarked: “I enjoyed Vande Mataram as a child. It was deeply patriotic and closely connected with India’s freedom struggle. I hope the next generation will also connect with it and enjoy it.”

She stressed that teaching Vande Mataram to children can help them understand India’s history and the sacrifices of freedom fighters, while also instilling a sense of national pride and civic responsibility.

Experts note that while Jana Gana Mana, the national anthem, is widely taught in schools, Vande Mataram is often overlooked despite its historical role as a rallying cry during India’s struggle for independence. Murty believes that this imbalance should be corrected to strengthen cultural and patriotic education.

Inclusion in School Curriculum

Murty suggested that the Union government consider making Vande Mataram a regular part of school curricula, encouraging children to learn it alongside the national anthem. She said: “It takes just three more minutes to teach Vande Mataram, and those minutes can create a lifelong connection with our nation and its values.”

She highlighted that the song embodies values of compassion, sacrifice, and love for the motherland, which are just as relevant today as they were during the independence movement.

Relevance in Contemporary India

With ongoing debates on national identity and patriotism, Murty’s remarks come at a time when educators and policymakers are focusing on instilling cultural pride among youth. According to her, connecting young Indians with Vande Mataram can also foster unity across regions, languages, and communities, echoing the song’s original intention of uniting the nation.

Reflections on Freedom Struggle Legacy

Murty recalled stories of freedom fighters and ordinary citizens who drew courage from Vande Mataram during the independence movement. She said that passing down such historical knowledge is vital for ensuring that the spirit of patriotism endures among future generations. “It is not just a song, it is a symbol of our identity and values. Every child should be proud of it,” she added.

Cultural and Educational Significance

Sudha Murty’s call aligns with broader discussions on strengthening cultural education in schools, including music, literature, and history that highlight India’s rich heritage. Experts say that early engagement with patriotic songs like Vande Mataram can foster emotional intelligence, respect for the nation, and awareness of civic duties.