'Vande Mataram' will be sung at the Red Fort for the first time, and a grand welcome will be accorded via an Mi-17 helicopter..

Preparations for Independence Day are in full swing across the country. India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day this year. On this day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag and address the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort. This day holds immense significance for every Indian. To make the occasion even more memorable, 'Vande Mataram'—the national song—will be sung at the Red Fort for the first time to mark the completion of its 150th year. Furthermore, over 5,000 special guests have been invited to this grand ceremony.

**What is the Independence Day theme?**
This year's Independence Day is dedicated to 'Yuva Shakti' (youth power). The theme is based on "Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047" (Youth Power for a Developed India by 2047). The ceremony will specifically focus on addressing the youth. Additionally, young achievers who won medals in Olympiads across fields like Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics (specifically the 2026 Olympiads) have been invited and will be honored for their accomplishments.

**Marking 150 years of 'Vande Mataram'**
To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram', it will be sung at the Red Fort for the first time. This song, which inspired millions of Indians during the freedom struggle, will be celebrated in honor of the nation's heritage. A special rendition of 'Vande Mataram' will take place upon the Prime Minister's arrival, followed by the flag-hoisting ceremony.

**Special preparations for 'Vande Mataram'**
Elaborate preparations are underway for the 'Vande Mataram' segment. NCC cadets and volunteers from 'Mera Bharat' will come together to form the shape of 'Vande Mataram' in front of the Red Fort's ramparts. Additionally, an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter will shower flower petals on the gathering at the Red Fort to mark the song's 150th anniversary. The helicopter will also fly carrying a banner featuring 'Vande Mataram'. 

Invitation to 5,000 Guests
More than 5,000 guests have been invited for the Independence Day celebrations. The guests attending the event hail from diverse fields; participants will include International Yoga Day volunteers, women entrepreneurs under the PM Mudra Yojana, scientists, youth trained under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, and MyGov volunteers, among others.

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