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Introduction

As India marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, renewed debate highlights its complex historical and cultural legacy. The song was central to the Swadeshi Movement but required sensitive handling in a diverse society. The Indian National Congress (INC) 1937 resolution reflects how nationalism had to balance emotional appeal with inclusivity.

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Role in Swadeshi Movement

• Symbol of unity: It served as a shared rallying cry that emotionally bound people across regions and communities during anti-colonial protests.
  Eg: Hindus and Muslims marched together chanting Vande Mataram.
• Cultural revival: The song revived cultural pride by portraying India as the motherland, countering British narratives and strengthening nationalist identity.
• Mass mobilisation: Its rhythmic and evocative chant energised meetings, marches, and boycotts, helping mobilise large numbers for the Swadeshi cause.
• Broad appeal: Early use of the song found widespread acceptance across communities, widening the social base of the movement.
• Inspirational force: Its emotional tone inspired sacrifice and courage, sustaining morale during repression and strengthening collective resolve.

Rationale Behind the 1937 INC Resolution

• Religious sensitivity: Later stanzas contained specific religious imagery that risked alienating some groups, prompting INC to adopt only the first two.
• Preserving unity: The INC prioritised maintaining a shared political platform and avoided symbolism that could strain Hindu–Muslim solidarity.
• Preventing tension: Insisting on the full song could deepen communal divides at a fragile time, weakening the larger freedom struggle.
  ● Inclusive nationalism: Adopting only the non-controversial stanzas upheld a nationalism rooted in cultural pride without religious exclusivity.
• Pragmatic approach: The resolution reflected strategic accommodation, balancing patriotic sentiment with the need to keep the movement broad-based.

Conclusion

The journey of Vande Mataram reveals how powerful cultural symbols can unify yet require sensitive navigation in a plural society. The INC’s decision to limit its use reflected a commitment to inclusive nationalism. Preserving this spirit of accommodation remains vital for strengthening India’s social and political fabric.

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