Goa on Tuesday, commemorated 150 years of the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ and celebrated the Har Ghar Tiranga 2026 campaign with a State-Level programme organised by the Directorate of Art & Culture at the Institute Menezes Braganza, Panaji. The celebrations began with a Tiranga Rally from Miramar Circle to Azad Maidan, witnessing enthusiastic participation from students, youth and citizens.
The rally was followed by floral tributes at the Hutatma Smarak, the release of tricolour balloons and a mass singing of Vande Mataram. Participants also paid floral tributes to Bharat Mata, reaffirming the spirit of patriotism, national unity and pride in the country.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said “The 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram is an occasion to remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the nation. Recalling the historic struggle for Goa’s liberation, the sacrifices of freedom fighters who raised the Tricolour at Patradevi on August 15, 1955, and gave the call of “Vande Mataram, Bharat Mata Ki Jai, Portuguese Go Back.” The struggle eventually culminated in Goa’s liberation on December 19, 1961, and its integration with India.”
CM Sawant emphasised Tricolour representation of the sacrifices of generations of freedom fighters and the pride of a free India. He called upon the youth to carry this spirit forward by dedicating themselves to the vision of a Viksit Bharat 2047 and Viksit Goa 2037. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he urged young people to contribute through innovation, technology, research and other fields to build a stronger and developed India. He expressed confidence that the youth of Goa would play a leading role in realising this vision.
The Chief Minister also congratulated the students, youth and citizens who participated in the Tiranga Rally despite the rains, and appreciated their enthusiasm and patriotic spirit. He said the widespread participation in the rally reflects the pride with which people across Goa and the country continue to hold the Tricolour, while underscoring the importance of remembering the sacrifices that secured India’s freedom.
The programme was graced by Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar Minister for Art & Culture, Santosh Sukhdeve, IAS, Secretary Art & Culture; Vivek K. Naik Director Art & Culture, Shubash Shirodkar WRD Minister, Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism; MLAs; senior government officials; cultural organisations; students and other guests were present. The State-level celebration reaffirmed Goa’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the freedom struggle while inspiring citizens, particularly the youth, to contribute towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat and Viksit Goa.
