Vande Mataram to be Sung at Red Fort Before National Anthem, In A First

“Vande Mataram” will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort before the National Anthem during India’s 80th Independence Day ceremony on August 15. The government has described the planned sequence as a first for the annual celebrations, which will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Defence Secretary RK Singh said the arrangement had been specially planned as India marks 150 years of the national song. Under the sequence, the Prime Minister will arrive at the ramparts before “Vande Mataram” is played as those present remain standing. He will then unfurl the National Flag, following which the National Anthem will be played. Modi will subsequently address the nation from the historic monument.

This year’s ceremony will place particular emphasis on “Yuva Shakti,” giving greater prominence to young achievers and members of Generation Z. The focus comes amid increased public attention on young people following student-led demonstrations over alleged examination irregularities and paper leaks. Several students, innovators, entrepreneurs, volunteers and skill-development beneficiaries have been invited as special guests.

Also Read: Calcutta High Court Comments On Vande Mataram In Madrasas During Hearing

Nineteen medal-winning students from the 2026 International Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematical Olympiads will be felicitated and seated on the Red Fort’s ramparts. Other invitees include participants in the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, startup founders, beneficiaries of the PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, ventures supported by the Startup India Seed Fund and MY Bharat volunteers. Students from Delhi government schools selected through competitions and quizzes will also attend.

The Defence Secretary also clarified that the Leader of the Opposition would be invited and seated according to the official Table of Precedence. The statement follows controversy surrounding the 2024 ceremony, when Rahul Gandhi was seated several rows behind Cabinet ministers and members of India’s Paris Olympics contingent. Critics had argued that the arrangement did not reflect the Leader of the Opposition’s position, which is equivalent in rank to that of a Cabinet minister.

The broader theme of the celebrations will be the “Journey to Viksit Bharat @2047.” Visual displays around the Guard of Honour area will highlight India’s development in fields including space and nuclear technology. The invitation card will feature Seva Teerth, reflecting the government’s emphasis on public service, while seating enclosures will be named after major Indian lakes to promote awareness of water conservation.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Approves Bill Criminalising Insults To Vande Mataram