New Delhi: A historic rendition of “Vande Mataram” at the Red Fort set the tone for India’s 80th Independence Day on Saturday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his address to the nation to underline patriotism, self reliance and his vision of making India a developed country by 2047.
The National Song was performed in full during the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, adding a special significance to this year’s ceremony as 2026 marks 150 years of “Vande Mataram.” The song was followed by the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.”
The moment became one of the defining highlights of the morning. As the Army band performed “Vande Mataram”, Indian Air Force helicopters showered flower petals over the Red Fort, adding to the patriotic atmosphere.
Addressing the nation from the historic ramparts, Modi described the occasion as a “historic moment”, noting that “Vande Mataram” was echoing at the Red Fort. He connected the song with the spirit of India’s freedom struggle and the sacrifices made by generations of Indians.
The Prime Minister began his address by remembering the freedom fighters, revolutionaries and national leaders who fought for Independence. He said their sacrifices continue to guide India and that the country must work towards fulfilling the dreams they had for a free nation.
A major focus of Modi’s speech was his vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. With India set to complete 100 years of Independence in 2047, the Prime Minister said the country must work towards becoming a developed nation and build an India that is stronger, more prosperous and self reliant.
Self reliance was another major theme of the address. Modi urged Indians to give greater importance to locally made products and strengthen domestic capabilities in important sectors. He stressed that India should reduce its dependence on other countries and develop the technology, manufacturing and resources needed for its future.
The Prime Minister also spoke about India’s economic progress and its journey over the past decade. He highlighted the country’s growing capabilities in areas such as technology, manufacturing, critical minerals, energy and semiconductors.
Modi also expressed solidarity with people affected by floods and other natural disasters across the country, saying that the nation stood with those facing difficult times.
But it was “Vande Mataram” that provided the most powerful backdrop to this year’s Independence Day message. The song, deeply associated with India’s freedom movement, resonated from the Red Fort as Modi called on the country to carry the spirit of independence into its next major national milestone a developed India by 2047.
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