Lucknow, Nov. 6 -- UP BJP president Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary on Wednesday said that "Vande Mataram" is not just a song but the voice of India's soul that inspired the nation's freedom struggle and continues to awaken unity and courage in times of crisis. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Chaudhary said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre decided to celebrate 150 years of Vande Mataram from October 1 with nationwide events. "In Uttar Pradesh, simultaneous "Vande Mataram" recitations and gatherings will be held on November 7 at 18 locations, each led by 150 party workers. From November 8 to 15, similar programmes will take place at all district headquarters, as well as at assembly and division levels under the leadership of MPs, MLAs and senior leaders to ensure public participation," he said. The campaign will also include tricolour marches, morning processions, bike rallies, exhibitions and literary activities. The song, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875 and first recited by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896, embodies devotion, sacrifice and dedication to the motherland. In 1950, it was accorded the status of the national song by Dr Rajendra Prasad. HTC...