Modi reveals Jinnah's Vande Mataram opposition: Idolatry concerns

• Mohammad Ali Jinnah and the Muslim League opposed Vande Mataram, arguing it contained references to Hindu goddesses like Durga and Lakshmi, which they felt were not in keeping with Muslim sentiments.
• Their objections were based on the song's "idolatrous" nature and the belief that it did not align with emerging secular and inclusive national politics.
• PM Modi cited a 1937 letter from Nehru, suggesting the song's background in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel "Anandamath" could "upset Muslims."
• The Congress later adopted a modified version of the song, using only certain parts, to promote communal harmony.

Why It Matters: It explains historical religious objections that shaped India's national symbols.