LUCKNOW, Jan. 22 -- The Indian Army marked 150 years of Vande Mataram with a special band performance at Janeshwar Mishra Park on Wednesday evening, turning the city's largest green space into a vibrant arena of patriotism, military tradition, and musical precision. The event saw participation from serving soldiers, veterans, families, and civilians, with children and members of the general public adding to the festive atmosphere. The programme was organised to commemorate the enduring legacy of Vande Mataram, the national song that inspired generations during India's freedom movement. First published in 1875, Vande Mataram emerged as a powerful symbol of resistance during the freedom struggle. Army bands including the Military and Jazz Band of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment, the Jazz Band of 1 Assam Regiment, and the Pipe Band of the Army Medical Corps (AMC), presented patriotic and ceremonial tunes. The performances combined martial discipline with contemporary musical elements, drawing repeated applause from the audience. The evening opened with Vande Mataram, followed by popular patriotic compositions such as Lehra Do, Saare Jahan Se Achha, Teri Mitti, and Mera Mulk Mera Desh. The bands also performed stirring numbers like Dil Diya Hai Jaan Bhi Denge, Jeet Hogi Bharat Ki, and Sandese Aate Hain. Senior officials from the district administration, police, Lucknow Development Authority and municipal corporation were present at the event. Subedar Jatinder Singh, the band master from the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment Centre, said, "I have been with this band since 1998. I always wanted to do this-performing with patriotism in my heart for the army and the nation."...