Victoria Memorial to host exhibition honouring Bankim Chandra, 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’

KOLKATA: As part of the Government of India’s year-long celebrations marking 150 years of the iconic national song Vande Mataram, the Victoria Memorial Hall in Kolkata will host a special commemorative exhibition paying tribute to its composer, Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

The exhibition, which also marks the 132nd punyatithi (death anniversary) of the literary luminary, will be inaugurated on April 8, 2026, at the Great Indian Reformers Gallery within the Victoria Memorial premises. The event will be formally opened by West Bengal Governor R. N. Ravi, who also serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Victoria Memorial Hall.




The initiative seeks to celebrate the enduring legacy of Vande Mataram—a song that transcended literature to become a powerful symbol of India’s freedom struggle. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the anthem inspired generations of freedom fighters, instilling a sense of unity, courage, and devotion to the motherland.

Curated from the rich collections of Victoria Memorial Hall, the exhibition will showcase rare memorabilia reflecting the life, works, and intellectual influence of the 19th-century reformer and novelist. Among the highlights is the original writing desk used by Bankim Chandra—an evocative artefact symbolizing India’s cultural awakening and the birth of nationalist thought.

Speaking ahead of the inauguration, Sayan Bhattacharya, Secretary and Curator of Victoria Memorial Hall, described the exhibition as a tribute not only to a literary giant but also to India’s civilizational ethos. He noted that the display aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat, emphasizing cultural pride, inclusivity, and public engagement with heritage.

“The writing desk of Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay is not merely an artefact—it represents a defining moment in India’s intellectual history. We are honoured to present this exhibition to the nation,” Bhattacharya said, while also acknowledging the contributions of students and partner institutions.

The inaugural ceremony will include floral tributes by the Governor to two iconic artworks: a portrait of Bankim Chandra painted by Bamapada Banerjee and the evocative Bharat Mata by Abanindranath Tagore—both emblematic of India’s cultural and nationalist awakening.

In a unique and inclusive addition, the exhibition will feature creative works by students with disabilities and those from underprivileged backgrounds. Developed through workshops conducted by Victoria Memorial Hall, these works depict the historical context behind the composition of Vande Mataram and its role in energising the freedom movement.

Officials say the initiative reflects a broader effort to engage younger generations with India’s heritage while promoting inclusive cultural participation.

The exhibition is expected to draw visitors from across the country, offering a rare opportunity to revisit the legacy of a song—and a visionary—that helped shape the spirit of a nation.