EMBASSY OF INDIA
ATHENS
*****

PRESS RELEASE

Commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of Vande Mataram – An Evening Dedicated to the Spirit of Vande Mataram

The Embassy of India, Athens organised a cultural evening on 30 October 2026 at the Ambassador's Residence in Athens to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram, India's National Song. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram played a significant role in inspiring India's freedom movement and continues to symbolise national unity and pride.

2. The programme commenced with welcome remarks by Shri Ravi Shankar, Ambassador of India to Greece. The cultural evening celebrated the historic legacy of Vande Mataram through traditional Indian music and dance, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of India and the longstanding friendship between India and Greece.
3. The evening featured a tabla and sitar recital, classical Bharatanatyam dance performances, a solo dance presentation, and renditions of Vande Mataram by Greek artists. The participation of Greek artists added a special dimension to the commemoration, reflecting the spirit of cultural exchange and the close people-to-people ties between the two countries.
4. The cultural programme concluded with the screening of the trailer of the film Ramayana: Rise of a Legend, scheduled for release in Greek cinemas on 5 November 2026. The event provided an opportunity to showcase India's cultural traditions and further strengthen cultural engagement and mutual understanding between India and Greece.

Athens, Greece
2 November 2026