India Launches ‘VM Frames’ Film Contest Celebrate 150 Years of Vande Mataram Through Storytelling

The Ministry of Culture under the Government of India has launched the ‘VM Frames’ National Filmmaking Competition to mark the 150 years of Vande Mataram. This initiative invites the citizens and specially the young creators to express the spirit of the nation via the visual storytelling. The competition is part of the year-long nationwide celebration which aimed at to honoring the India’s cultural heritage.

Why 150 Years of Vande Mataram Matters Today

The Vande Mataram is written by the Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and it has a powerful role during the India’s freedom struggle.

It symbolized the devotion to the motherland and inspired countless freedom fighters.

Even today this song continues to represent the,

• Patriotism and the national pride
• Cultural unity and identity
• The idea of India as to nurturing motherland

The 150-year milestone is celebrated globally with the participation from states, union territories and the Indian missions abroad.

What is ‘VM Frames’?

‘VM Frames’ is just more than a competition it is the platform for storytelling which connects India’s past with its present and future. Also the participants are encouraged to creatively interpret the values of the Vande Mataram using modern formats.

Competition Categories

The contest is open in to the three engaging formats.

• Reels – Short and impactful visual stories
• AI-Based Films – Innovative storytelling by using artificial intelligence
• Short Films – The detailed cinematic narratives

Each category will allows creators to explore the themes like patriotism, unity, cultural identity and New India’s vision.

Prize Pool and Awards Breakdown

The competition offers the attractive rewards and making it one of the most significant creative contests in India.

Reels Category

• First Prize: ₹1,50,000
• Second Prize: ₹1,00,000
• Third Prize: ₹50,000

AI Films Category

• First Prize: ₹5,00,000
• Second Prize: ₹3,00,000
• Third Prize: ₹1,50,000

Short Films Category

• First Prize: ₹15,00,000
• Second Prize: ₹12,00,000
• Third Prize: ₹10,00,000

This structured reward system is aims to encourage the participation across skill levels from beginners to the professional filmmakers.

How to Participate in VM Frames Competition

The interested participants can submit their entries online website before the deadline.

• Last Date for Submission: 7 May 2026
• It is open to citizens across India and abroad.
• Also focus on original and meaningful storytelling.

The competition emphasizes the creativity, originality and the emotional connection with the theme of Vande Mataram.