Mysuru: Sixteen school children from Purna Chetana, the 21st Century Bharatiya School, sang ‘Vande Mataram’ at three prominent locations in city yesterday morning to mark ‘Vande Mataram Divas.’ 

The students first rendered the nearly three-minute-long song in front of the Mysuru Palace, drawing attention of tourists, morning walkers and residents. Several people gathered at the spot and joined the children in singing the song. 

The students later sang near the historic Nandi statue atop Chamundi Hill, where visitors stood up as a mark of respect and also at Kukkarahalli Lake. 

The initiative, organised for the first time by the school in Mysuru, was aimed at creating awareness among the younger generation about the significance of ‘Vande Mataram,’ its composer Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and the song’s role in India’s freedom struggle. 

The performances drew appreciation from tourists, morning walkers and members of the public. School Chief Executive Officer Darshan Raj, CAO Maadhurya Ramaswamy and senior teacher Ramya accompanied the students. 

Speaking on the occasion, Maadhurya Ramaswamy said the initiative was intended to inspire the younger generation to understand and respect the ideals represented by ‘Vande Mataram’ and carry its spirit forward.