India is often lovingly referred to Mother or „Bharat Mata” in Hindi, a term that symbolizes the deep-rooted connection and reverence that people have for the land. It’s a reflection of the nation’s diverse culture, history, and the nurturing, life-giving qualities attributed to the Earth and also spiritual depth which is still very alive, felt with the first footstep taken outside of the airport…
I asked about that my indian friends and they also said: during freedom issues this idea became stronger as people felt responsibility to protect India, seeing her as a Mother. She continuously fought for freedom and continues to strive toward progress, all while maintaining its cultural heritage.
During colonial period the song “Vande Mataram” was created by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay to glorify the nation’s freedom movement among the people. Now it is one of the most important national song and even revered as National Anthem. Here done by mostly respected Lata Mangeshkar, one of the greatest singers and lovers of Mother India, personally my favourite version…
Lyrics:
Mother, I praise you!
Full of water, bountiful, refreshed by the southern breeze, with the green fields, Mother!
Shining at night with the moon’s glow, adorned with flowering trees, blissfully smiling, sweetly speaking, giving joy, quenching thirst, Mother!
Terrifying, with the shrill cries of 70 million voices and the blades of swords held by 70 million hands.
Who says, Mother, that you are powerless?
I bow to you, mighty one, savior, driving away the enemy, Mother!
You are wisdom, you are dharma,
our heart, our soul, our breath.
In your arms, Mother, strength,
in your heart, faith and love,
We will raise your image in every temple.
You are Durga, holding ten kinds of weapons,
You are Kamala, enjoying peace on the lotus,
You are the Word, the goddess who gives knowledge. I bow to you! I bow to you, O goddess of fortune, pure, incomparable, full of water and abundance, Mother!
Glory to you, Mother!
India is The Heart of Humanity. At its core, there is a place of boundless hospitality, which I experienced many times… The concept of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is God) is deeply integrated into Indian way of life, reinforcing the belief that India welcomes travelers with open arms, just as a mother welcomes her children.
I could say that the term Mother represents the core quality – nourishement and deeper care without expectations. Whether you come for history, spirituality, nature, or culture, India offers something deeply enriching for everyone. It’s a place where every journey becomes an exploration of something more than just tourism… tbc.
~ Marta Pema Yudrön