Bhubaneswar: Odisha witnessed a historic moment of patriotic fervor as a record-breaking 29,97,468 participants gathered across the state to sing Vande Mataram in unison at 11 AM on January 12.
Marking National Youth Day with an unprecedented display of cultural unity, the anthem resonated through 28,921 institutions, spanning every corner of the land from bustling cities to remote villages.
During an address at Utkal University, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi lauded the monumental achievement, emphasizing how the spirit of the youth and the collective voice of the people have brought immense pride to the state.
The Minister of Culture, Suryabanshi Suraj, extended his congratulations to the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, noting that the event showcased the true potential and organizational excellence of the administration.
This massive undertaking was the result of a month-long, meticulous exercise led by Secretary Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyaya. To ensure the anthem was performed with the traditional Swar, Tala, and Laya prescribed in musical encyclopedias, a specialized network of state, district, and block-level trainers conducted extensive workshops.
The seamless execution relied on real-time data collection and the active involvement of District Collectors across all 30 districts, who ensured the program reached every grassroots institution.
The sheer magnitude of the participation—spanning over 16,000 institutions—turned the state into a grand stage where the identity of the Odia people merged with the national consciousness.
Behind this success lay weeks of tireless dedication from block-level trainers and district administrators who worked in perfect alignment.
Cultural observers have noted that the event did more than just break records; it rejuvenated the state’s cultural infrastructure and demonstrated a rare level of inter-departmental synergy.
By weaving together the efforts of education, sports, and culture wings, Odisha has set a new benchmark for how art and tradition can be used to foster a deep-seated sense of belonging and unity among the youth.
The success of the initiative is being hailed as a triumph of collaborative leadership. While the project was a joint venture involving the Departments of School and Mass Education, Higher Education, and Sports and Youth Services, observers credited the integrity and vision of Dr.Bijaya Ketan Upadhyaya’s leadership for harmonizing these diverse efforts.
This collective resonance of Vande Mataram has not only set a state record but has also reaffirmed Odisha’s deep-rooted devotion to its cultural and national identity.