Railways Concludes Year-Long Celebrations Marking 150 Years of Vande Mataram
New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways concluded its year-long Vande Mataram celebrations marking 150 years of the National Song with a cultural programme at Rail Bhawan on November 5, 2026. The event marked the concluding week of the fourth phase, which runs from November 1 to 7.
Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar attended the programme along with Board Members, Director Generals and other senior officials. The celebrations featured activities promoting national unity, patriotism and India’s cultural heritage.
The Ministry organised the year-long programme in four phases. Through these activities, Indian Railways highlighted the National Song’s enduring message of unity and collective effort.
The first phase began on November 7, 2025, with a mass singing programme at the Rail Bhawan Conference Hall. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the inaugural event.
Next, the Railway Board organised an essay competition on January 22, 2026. Participants explored the theme, “Vande Mataram: The Spirit of Unity in India’s Diversity”. The competition encouraged participants to reflect on the National Song’s significance and its message of national integration.
The third phase featured a quiz competition on the 150-year journey of Vande Mataram. The Railway Board conducted the event on August 10, 2026. Additionally, Ashwini Vaishnaw led a Tiranga Rally within the Rail Bhawan premises. Satish Kumar, Board Members, Director Generals and senior railway officials also joined the rally.
Vande Mataram celebrations conclude with awards and cultural recognition
During the November 5 closing programme, the Ministry honoured winners of the essay and quiz competitions. Officials presented prizes and merit certificates to recognise their achievements.
The Ministry also recognised the Railway Board Cultural Group for its contribution throughout the year. The group received a prize and merit certificate for organising and supporting various cultural programmes.
Meanwhile, the Ministry highlighted the continuing relevance of Vande Mataram in promoting unity, dedication and collective effort. It said these values also guide the functioning of Indian Railways.
Furthermore, the celebrations reinforced the importance of sincerity, integrity and efficiency among railway employees. The Ministry urged officials to uphold these values while discharging their responsibilities.
The Ministry said these principles would help Indian Railways achieve greater progress. The year-long Vande Mataram celebrations also provided an opportunity for railway employees to reflect on the National Song’s legacy and its contribution to India’s national identity.
