Vande Mataram: Four Generations, One Legacy, One Historic Moment
Padma Shri Hariharan and four generations of his family presented the Vande Mataram vinyl album to President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
In a poignant blend of musical heritage and national pride, the halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan witnessed a historic tribute to the spirit of India. On October 26, 2026, the timeless essence of Vande Mataram vinyl album took center stage as Padma Shri Hariharan and Smt. Alamelu Mani presented the first copy of the premium vinyl record, titled The Anthem: Vande Mataram, to the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.
A Family Symphony Across Generations
While the occasion was a formal presentation, it was the personal touch that made the event truly extraordinary. The ceremony celebrated a rare musical lineage, as four generations of Hariharan’s family gathered to honor the song that once fueled a nation's fight for independence.
Joining the legendary Hariharan were:
- Shri Akshay Hariharan, representing the second generation.
- Aria Akshay and Ahan Akshay, the youngest voices of the family, adding a fresh, youthful resonance to the legacy.
- Smt. Lalitha Hariharan and Smt. Amritha, who were also present to mark this deeply personal milestone.
Each of these family members contributed their voices to the album, transforming a musical project into a living bridge between the past, present, and future.
The Vision Behind 'The Anthem'
The conceptual spark for this project came from Shri Akhilesh Jha of the Centre for Gramophone and Allied Studies (CeGRAMS). During the meeting, Shri Jha introduced President Murmu to the vision behind the album, explaining its historical significance and the curated collection of songs that form the heart of the record. He was accompanied by Smt. Rashmita Jha, who played a pivotal role in the endeavor, and Shri Saji Pillai of Samanvi Digital Media.
A Live Rendition and a Nostalgic Spin
The atmosphere at Rashtrapati Bhavan turned electric when Padma Shri Hariharan shared the story of the album's creation and performed a live rendition of Vande Mataram for the President. The performance served as a powerful reminder of the song's enduring ability to stir emotion and patriotism.
However, the most evocative moment of the day occurred when the Hon’ble President listened to the very first copy of the vinyl record. As the needle touched the disc and the music played on a turntable, it symbolized a full circle: a song that defined the struggle for freedom was now being heard in the highest constitutional office of a free India, carried forward by four generations of musicians.
The event was more than just the delivery of a record; it was a profound celebration of music, memory, and the everlasting spirit of Vande Mataram.