Vande Maataram is a Bengali poem written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1870s, which he included in his 1881 novel Anandamath. The poem was composed into song by Rabindranath Tagore. The first two verses of the song were adopted as the National Song of India in October 1937 by the Congress Working Committee prior to the end of colonial rule in August 1947.

Introduction:
Vande Mataram is a patriotic song that has become synonymous with the Indian freedom struggle. It was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, an eminent Bengali writer and novelist.

Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay:
- Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was born on June 27, 1838, in the village of Naihati in Bengal.
- He was a prominent figure in the Bengal Renaissance, a cultural and intellectual movement that played a vital role in shaping India's national identity.
- Chattopadhyay was not only a writer but also a civil servant in the British administration. He held various positions throughout his career, including the Deputy Collector of Jessore and Deputy Magistrate of Midnapur.
- His works often depicted social and political issues and aimed to inspire a sense of nationalistic fervor among Indians.

Writing of Vande Mataram:
- Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay penned Vande Mataram in the late 1870s as a poem in his novel, Anandamath.
- The novel Anandamath, published in 1882, depicted the Sannyasi Rebellion against British rule in the late 18th century. Vande Mataram appeared in the text as a rallying cry for the rebels.
- Vande Mataram gained immense popularity and soon became a symbol of India's struggle for independence.
- The song is written in Sanskrit and Bengali, and its powerful and evocative lyrics express love and reverence for the motherland.

Significance and Cultural Impact:
- Vande Mataram played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses during the freedom movement.
- It was widely sung during protests, public meetings, and gatherings, instilling a sense of unity and nationalism among the people.
- The song's popularity grew to such an extent that it became the de facto national anthem of India during the freedom struggle.
- Vande Mataram continues to be an integral part of patriotic celebrations and is sung on occasions like Independence Day and Republic Day.

Conclusion:
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's Vande Mataram holds immense historical and cultural significance in India. Its powerful lyrics and message of love for the motherland continue to inspire generations of Indians.