Hyderabad: The stirring notes of patriotic songs echoed across Hyderabad’s Tank Bund on Thursday during a solidarity rally organised by the state government. As melodies like “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon, Zara Aankh Mein Bhar Lo Pani” played in the background, participants were visibly moved, softly humming along and drawing inspiration from the powerful lyrics that continue to ignite a deep love for the motherland.Patriotic songs have long played a pivotal role in uniting people and fuelling national spirit. Bengali singer Krishna Mukerji, a resident of Banjara Hills, noted that several Bengali songs—both pre- and post-Independence—stirred collective consciousness and mobilised the masses during the freedom movement. “Vande Mataram,” which later evolved into “Vande Mataram,” penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, became a rallying cry for a nation longing for independence. “‘Shanko chero, beubholota nejero apoman’ roughly means ‘shying away in hesitation is self-humiliation’,” she explained. “Songs like these still awaken the spirit of fearlessness and encourage people to stand for the nation.” In Kerala, where the freedom struggle saw significant participation from common citizens, literature and poetry played a vital role. Prominent Malayalam poet Vallathol Narayana Menon contributed several patriotic poems that were later turned into songs. “These songs, such as ‘Papamochanam’, inspired generations to participate in the freedom movement,” said Dr Jolly Puthussery, professor of folk culture studies at the University of Hyderabad. He also highlighted “Namute Marupati,” a song that addressed the obstacles on India’s path to freedom. “These songs are still played during national festivals and continue to inspire,” he added. Telugu cinema has produced timeless patriotic numbers. Songs like “Telugu Veera Levara” from the 1971 film Alluri Seetarama Raju, composed by P. Adinarayana Rao, continue to resonate with audiences. The song celebrates the valour of a tribal youth who fearlessly resisted British colonial forces. Another popular track, “Punya Bhoomi Na Desham” from the film Major Chandrakanth, pays tribute to the sacrifices of freedom fighters. In Odisha, too, patriotic music held immense sway. Naushad Khan, a resident of Nampally, recalled that the song “Bande Utkala Janani” is still played at all major national events in the state. “This song is a must at any patriotic occasion,” he said, underscoring its enduring emotional impact. Commenting on the unifying power of music, poet and songwriter Gajjala Srinivas, known for his compositions during the Telangana statehood movement, said, “‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ is worth more than a thousand words. A song can cut across caste, creed and religion. It unites people and carries forward the cause.”Across languages and regions, the message is clear—songs of patriotism transcend time, binding citizens in a shared spirit of pride and purpose.
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