Indian Jhanda Geet: A History
The Indian Jhanda Geet, commonly referred to as “Vijayi Vishva Tiranga Pyara,” is a soaring patriotic symphony that is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Indian nationalism. It is much more than just a song. Its past is entwined with the tale of India’s struggle for independence and the respect accorded to the tricolor Tiranga, which serves as the country’s flag.
From 1937 to 1938, From Inspiration to Anthem:
The late 1930s saw India advance toward independence, and it became clear that the country needed a song honoring its flag. A well-known Indian National Congressman named Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi asked poet Shyam Lal Gupta, also referred to as “Parshad,” to write a song of that like in 1937.
At first, Parshad had trouble articulating the intensity of his feelings for the Tiranga. But during a nightlong vigil, driven by undying patriotism, he eventually spilled his heart out on paper, creating the now-iconic lyrics.
The Congress leadership responded favorably to the song, “Jhanda Geet,” and it was formally adopted during the 53rd annual Congress session in Jabalpur in 1938. Though Parshad received just 500 rupees, the song’s lasting influence on the country was the real prize.
National Pride: “Vijayi Vishva Tiranga Pyara,” which translates to “Victorious world, our beloved tricolor,” is the first sentence that establishes the flag as a representation of accomplishment and pride in the country.
Sacrifice and Commitment: The verses acknowledge the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle by urging citizens to defend the flag’s honor even at the expense of their lives.
Aspirations for a Better World: The song highlights the universal principles embodied by the Tiranga and transcends national boundaries, expressing hope for a world free from poverty, injustice, and conflict.
Unity and Love: The final words, which express the dream of an inclusive and undivided India, exhort unity and love among all people.
Legacy and Ongoing Importance:
Sung passionately at private parties, national events, and educational institutions, the Jhanda Geet has transcended decades. The Tiranga’s status as a beloved national emblem is cemented by its potent reminder of India’s past, present, and ideals.
The song still stirs up strong feelings in people today, reminding them all of their duty to preserve the principles of equality, justice, and freedom that are embodied in the Tiranga. The Jhanda Geet is a timeless tribute to the Indian spirit that will never go out of style as long as there are dreams of a just and united world.
વિજયી વિશ્વ તિરંગા પ્યારા, ઝંડા ઊચા રહે હમારા.
સદા શક્તિ બરસાને વાલા, પ્રેમસુધા સરસાનેવાલા,
વીરો કો હર્ષાને વાલા, માતૃભૂમિ કા તનમન સારા
ઝંડા ઊંચા રહે હમારા….
શાન ન ઇસકી જાણે પાવે, ચાહે જાણ ભલે હી જાયે,
વિશ્વવિજય કર કે દિખલાયે, તબ હોવે પ્રણ પૂર્ણ હમારા
ઝંડા ઊંચા રહે હમારા….
આઓ પ્યારે વીરો આઓ, દેશ પ્રેમ પર બલિ બલિ જાઓ.
એક સાથ સબ મિલકર ગાઓ, પ્યારા ભારત દેશ હમારા
ઝંડા ઊંચા રહે હમારા….
– શ્યામલાલ ગુપ્ત ‘પાર્ષદ’