In which period did Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay write 'Vande Mataram' as a hymn to the motherland? 

The Correct answer is 1870s-1880s.

Key Points

• Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote 'Vande Mataram' during the 1870s-1880s, as part of his famous novel Anandamath, which was published in 1882.
• 'Vande Mataram' is a hymn dedicated to the motherland and is regarded as an iconic patriotic song in India.
• The song served as a source of inspiration during the Indian freedom struggle, particularly during the Swadeshi Movement.
• Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was one of the earliest Indian writers to incorporate themes of nationalism in literature.
• The novel Anandamath, which features 'Vande Mataram', explores themes of patriotism, sacrifices, and the fight against colonial rule.
• 'Vande Mataram' was later composed into music by Rabindranath Tagore and adopted as the national song of India.
• Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay played a significant role in shaping the Indian nationalist movement through his writings.

 Additional Information

• 1840s-1850s
  • This period primarily marked the early years of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's life. He was born in 1838 and completed his education during this time.
  • His literary career and contribution to Indian nationalist literature began much later, in the subsequent decades.
• 1850s-1860s
  • During this period, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay completed his education and became one of the first graduates of the University of Calcutta.
  • Although he began writing during this time, his major works addressing nationalism and patriotism came later.
• 1890s-1900s
  • This period marked the later years of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's life, as he passed away in 1894.
  • By this time, his works, including 'Vande Mataram', had already gained prominence and influenced the Indian freedom struggle.