Lady Shri Ram College for Women, commemorated the enduring legacy of Vande Mataram as a powerful symbol of India’s freedom movement and paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose vision and leadership were vital in the integration and unification of India, during a special event marking 150 years of Vande Mataram and the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event was held on Friday, 21 November 2025, at 09:45 in the college amphitheatre to a packed audience.
In her welcome address, the Acting Principal of the college, Prof. Kanika Ahuja, highlighted the historical and contemporary significance of Vande Mataram and the contribution of Sardar Patel, whose vision and leadership were instrumental in the integration and unification of free India. Reflecting on the occasion, Prof. Ahuja noted that as LSR enters its 70th year, we also commemorate the 150th anniversary of Sardar Patel, which coincides with that of Vande Mataram; a connection that is not merely coincidental, but a powerful embodiment of a unified India.
The event was graced by Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, as the Chief Guest. In her address, she stated, “As we remember him, we pay our heartfelt tribute. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel gave India its unified form, and ‘Vande Mataram’ stitched us together in spirit and purpose.” Ms. Swaraj highlighted that today’s youth must aspire not only to be job seekers, but job creators. She reminded students that it is their responsibility to educate themselves, enhance their skills, and help advance the vision of Viksit Bharat with commitment and pride.
She also urged the gathering to take an Oath of Commitment to the Nation (Swadeshi Sankalp Shapath) to drive the spirit of unification and strengthen India’s journey toward self-reliance and collective progress. The audience sang Vande Matram with full patriotic fervour.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, Dr. Vikas Gupta, Registrar, University of Delhi, attended as distinguished Special Guest.
The event also featured standout performances by LSR’s music societies, Dhwani and WMS. As an acapella group that creates music using only their voices and strives to bring people together through harmony, the WMS and Dhwani collaboration for a performance of Jai Ho on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary celebrated his legacy through music.
LSR Dramsoc presented a special Nukkad Natak on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s journey, from a steadfast lawyer to the force who unified a divided nation. Tracing his integrity, courage, and leadership from Bardoli to the integration of 565 princely states, the play celebrates his unwavering commitment to a united, sovereign India.
To mark the occasion, a Unity March was organised, with participation from students of neighbouring schools, including Bluebells International, Tagore International, and Frank Anthony Public School, along with the students of LSR. The march aimed to celebrate and reflect on the historical and cultural heritage of this iconic ode to the motherland.
More than 500 students actively participated in the occasion, including volunteers from National Service Scheme (NSS) and National Cadet Corps (NCC) units of LSR.
