As the Lok Sabha held a 10-hour-long discussion on the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ on Monday, Sajal Chattopadhyay, the great-grandson of the song’s creator, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiating the special commemoration.
Speaking to ANI news agency, Chattopadhyay hailed the move as long overdue:
“This should have happened long ago. I salute Narendra Modi for it,” he said, adding that “no one has done anything for my grandfather until now.”
The National Mantra and Historical Pride
Chattopadhyay emphasized the historical significance of the song in the nation’s struggle for independence:
“Vande Mataram is considered the national mantra. The mantra was inculcated in the national freedom struggle. At a time when the next generation is forgetting this, what Modi ji has done is good. I feel proud,” he added.
Accusations of State Neglect and Demands
While thanking the central leadership, Chattopadhyay strongly criticized the West Bengal government for allegedly overlooking his great-grandfather and his family.
- Critique of CM Banerjee: “She (CM Mamata Banerjee) hasn’t done anything yet; she should have done it earlier. She is the chief minister; she could have done with that much power.” He stated emphatically, “There have been no efforts from the side of this government.”
- Central Government Interaction: He highlighted that officials from Delhi, including Home Minister Amit Shah, have personally met the family and discussed ways to promote the song, noting that the state leadership has not reached out.
- Neglect of the Legacy: Chattopadhyay stressed that the neglect Bankim Babu faced is mirrored in the neglect of his family, noting that the song was once banned because it contained names of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Demand for a University
Chattopadhyay underscored the lack of proper memorials dedicated to the iconic Bengali poet and writer, who holds the distinction of being India’s first graduate.
He called for official recognition and the creation of dedicated institutions:
“Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was India’s first graduate, but there’s still nothing in his name in the country. There’s a university named after Rabindranath Tagore. What’s the problem with having a university named after him? There’s Rabindra Bhavan. Is there a Bankim Bhavan?”
He clarified that the push for recognition is not political but aimed solely at preserving history and ensuring the next generation knows his ancestor: “If there’s a university, people there will also know who Bankim Babu was.”