India, March 10 -- The Consulate General of India in Houston has hosted an event commemorating 150 years of the national song, "Vande Mataram".

The cultural gala held on Sunday was attended by over 800 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India.

It featured a pan-Indian musical journey, representing the diverse traditions of India, and served as a grand musical homage to the iconic anthem composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875.

The celebration highlighted the song's enduring role as the "heartbeat of India" and a symbol of national unity during the year-long global commemoration of this milestone, the mission said. In his remarks, Consul General D C Manjunath said "Vande Mataram" remains a "message of unity, devotion, a...