On the occasion of the completion of 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram, two prestigious bands of the Indian Army—the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre Band and the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre Band—presented a grand and mesmerising musical performance at the auditorium of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, on 23 January 2026.
The programme was organised with the objective of conveying the historic, cultural and patriotic spirit of Vande Mataram to the general public. With this event, AIIMS Raipur became the starting point of a five-day series of special Vande Mataram commemorative programmes to be held across Raipur city. As part of this series, Indian Army military bands will perform at various prominent locations, offering citizens an immersive experience of patriotic music and military tradition.
The Indian Army band tradition, which originated during the British era, has evolved significantly in independent India and today stands as a symbol of discipline, valour, patriotism and cultural unity. Army bands are renowned for their distinctive performances during military parades, national celebrations and state functions, and they play a vital role in strengthening the spirit of nationalism and unity among citizens across the country.
During the performance at AIIMS Raipur, the Army bands enthralled the audience with soulful renditions of popular patriotic songs such as Sandese Aate Hain, Desh Mere Meri Jaan and Teri Mitti Mein Mil Jaawan, along with military marches and musical compositions based on Vande Mataram. The emotionally charged presentation left the audience deeply moved and filled the auditorium with patriotic fervour.
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram emerged as a powerful symbol of national consciousness and unity during India’s freedom struggle. The completion of 150 years of this iconic composition in 2026 marks a proud and historic milestone for the nation. To commemorate the occasion, special cultural and musical programmes are being organised across the country in collaboration with the Indian Army, with the aim of connecting the younger generation to the nation’s history, values and spirit of sacrifice.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Lieutenant General Ashok Jindal (Retired), Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, said that the programme was not merely a musical event but a meaningful platform that strengthened the emotional and patriotic bond between a healthcare institution, the Armed Forces and society.
The event proved to be a memorable experience for faculty members, staff, students, their families and all those present, leaving them imbued with a deep sense of patriotism, pride and national unity. The entire programme was coordinated by Lieutenant Colonel Dharmveer Chauhan, Deputy Director (Administration), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur.
