M.M. Keeravaani to Unveil 'Mantra of Freedom — Vande Mataram' for India's 2026 Republic Day

The historic Kartavya Path in New Delhi is preparing to host a landmark musical event on January 26, 2026, as a centerpiece of India’s Republic Day celebrations. Oscar-winning composer M. M. Keeravaani has been commissioned to create a significant new musical work to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song, "Vande Mataram." This new composition is designed to honor one of the most vital symbols of Indian national identity, merging historical legacy with a fresh, contemporary perspective.

This massive cultural undertaking will feature a grand performance by approximately 2,500 artists representing various regions across the country. By bringing together such a diverse group of performers, the event aims to showcase India’s cultural and linguistic variety as a form of living unity. The overarching theme for the 2026 Republic Day Parade has been titled "Mantra of Freedom — Vande Mataram," emphasizing the song's spiritual and historical role in shaping the nation’s collective soul.

The commemorative initiative officially began on November 7, 2025, a date chosen to mark the anniversary of the song’s first publication in the 19th century. This launch kicked off a year-long celebration spanning 2025 and 2026, specifically designed to involve students and the youth. The goal is to foster a deeper understanding among younger generations regarding the historical and cultural significance of this anthem of independence.

M. M. Keeravaani is serving as the musical director for this cultural segment, which is being meticulously curated by the Ministry of Culture of India. The production is set to blend traditional musical elements with modern orchestration, reflecting the themes of both continuity and national renewal. To add a compelling narrative layer to the musical performance, the renowned actor Anupam Kher will join the production as a narrator, providing context to the evolving sounds of freedom.

"Vande Mataram," originally penned by the legendary Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, holds a unique place in the heart of the nation. While "Jana Gana Mana" serves as the national anthem, "Vande Mataram" was officially recognized as the national song on January 24, 1950, and is traditionally held in equal esteem. For the 2026 Republic Day, the song is being reimagined not merely as a historical relic, but as a living cultural code that bridges the gap between the ancestors who fought for freedom and the generations of today.

This initiative adds a profound new dimension to the global musical landscape, where national memory is transformed into a collective sound of the present day. When thousands of voices and instruments move in a single, synchronized rhythm, the state ceremony is transformed into a shared musical space of harmony. It serves as a poignant reminder that a song can be a powerful expression of freedom and that sound can act as a universal language of unity.

As the 2026 celebrations approach, the collaboration between Keeravaani and the Ministry of Culture highlights the enduring power of art in statecraft. The performance at Kartavya Path will stand as a testament to India's journey, proving that the echoes of the past can inspire the melodies of the future. This symphonic tribute ensures that the legacy of "Vande Mataram" remains a cornerstone of the national experience for years to come.