Prayagraj: A 150-metre-long tricolour became the centrepiece of a grand Tiranga Yatra taken out by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in the city on Saturday to mark 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’. A large number of students, youth and ABVP workers participated in the yatra from Medical Chauraha to Subhash Chauraha, raising slogans of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and carrying a message of putting the nation first.The yatra began with the national anthem and sought to promote national unity and integrity while encouraging young people to channelise their energy towards constructive nation-building. ABVP said the initiative was aimed at reminding students that they have an important role not only in shaping their individual futures but also in contributing to the country’s development.ABVP Kashi state secretary Shivam Singh said ‘Vande Mataram’ was more than a national song as it represented India’s freedom consciousness, cultural identity and spirit of patriotism. He said the completion of 150 years of the song was a matter of pride and the yatra was intended to strengthen the ‘Nation First’ spirit among youth.ABVP Prayag Mahanagar secretary Prateek Mishra said the tricolour symbolised the country’s unity, integrity and national pride. He said the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’ provided an opportunity for young people to connect with India’s heritage and reaffirm their commitment towards the nation.ABVP said it worked for students’ interests, educational advancement and holistic development during its 76-year journey, while encouraging social responsibility and participation in nation-building.Among those present were former ABVP Kashi Prant state secretary Atendra Singh, SHoDH national co-convener Himanshu Pandey, national executive council member Aanchal Singh, Mahanagar president Manish Srivastava, Vibhag convener Prashant Singh and several other office-bearers and students.
