Governor of Tamil Nadu Vishwanath Arlekar Inaugurated the Vande Mataram camp on 22 September 2026 at Nethaji Auditorium, Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai, in an atmosphere of patriotism, youthful energy, and cultural splendour. The initiative, undertaken through the collaborative efforts of My Bharat, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and VIT Chennai, reflects a collective commitment towards nurturing responsible youth and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat. The camp brings together young participants from different states, creating a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, national integration, and the celebration of India’s diversity.
Shri. S. Senthil Kumar, State Director, My Bharat, Tamil Nadu, delivered the welcome address. Shri. J. Kamaraj, IIS, Additional Director General, Press Information Bureau and Central Bureau of Communications, Chennai, delivered the felicitation address.
In his inspiring address, the Hon’ble Governor of Tamil Nadu reflected on India’s enduring civilisational legacy, shaped by the wisdom of the Rishis and Munis and sustained through a commonly shared cultural and historical consciousness. He highlighted the opportunity for participants to experience the rich traditions of Assam, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Puducherry, and Telangana during the eight-day camp. Emphasising the constitutional spirit of fraternity, he called upon the youth to rise above regional and cultural distinctions and recognise the profound unity that binds every Indian to one motherland and let the spirit of Rashtriyata inspire purposeful action towards building a strong and self-reliant Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The cultural soul of the evening unfolded through an enchanting group dance by the Kerala and Assam teams, which illuminated the distinctive cultural richness, traditions, and artistic heritage of the two states. The performance transformed the stage into a living tapestry of India’s diversity, demonstrating how varied cultures can converge in harmony while retaining their unique identity.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Dr. P. K. Manoharan, Additional Registrar, VIT Chennai, followed by the National Song and National Anthem.
Dr. G. Viswanathan, Chancellor, VIT University, , Dr. G. V. Selvam, Vice-President, VIT Chennai were participated the event.