Assam Rifles commemorated the 150th anniversary of India’s national song Vande Mataram with a series of stirring musical tributes across Manipur. The events, held at Kangla Fort in Imphal, Khongjom War Memorial in Thoubal District and Peace Ground in Tuibong, Churachandpur, brought together communities in a vibrant celebration of patriotism and cultural pride. At Kangla Fort, the Assam Rifles Band captivated over 200 spectators, including NCC cadets, college students and tourists, with powerful renditions of patriotic melodies such as Vande Mataram, Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja and Sare Jahan Se Acha. The rhythmic drumbeats and brass harmonies reverberated across the historic gates, symbolising unity and national fervour, said a press release of IGAR(S).
In Thoubal District, the Khongjom War Memorial provided a solemn backdrop for a ceremonial musical programme. The evocative performance of Vande Mataram and other patriotic compositions echoed across the revered grounds, paying homage to Manipur’s legendary warriors and instilling pride among visitors and tourists present. The largest gathering was witnessed at Peace Ground, Tuibong, Churachandpur, where the Pipe Band and Jazz Band of Assam Rifles performed the full rendition of Vande Mataram. The event drew approximately 1,200 students from Bethany Christian College, Churachandpur College, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Churachandpur and Rayburn College, along with 300 NCC cadets and 200 civilians. The sight of the tricolour waving proudly in every direction transformed the venue into a vibrant arena of national fervour, leaving the audience charged with emotion and pride ahead of Republic Day, it added.
