Six Stanzas of Vande Mataram Elevated as Mandatory at Events
In a significant move aimed at formalising the status of India’s national song, the Union Home Ministry has issued detailed guidelines mandating the singing or playing of the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram at several official occasions. The decision introduces, for the first time, a structured protocol for the national song similar to the clearly defined rules that govern the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
The 10-page directive, issued on January 28 to all states, Union Territories, ministries, and constitutional bodies, outlines when and how the six-stanza, 3 minute 10 second official version must be performed. The order marks a major shift, as until now, there were no formal instructions regulating its usage at government functions.
Full Version of National Song Gets Formal Recognition
Written in the 1870s by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Sanskritised Bengali, Vande Mataram played a powerful role in India’s freedom movement. In 1950, only the first two stanzas were adopted as the national song. The expanded six-stanza version had not been formally used in state ceremonies until now.
The new order gives official recognition to the full version and defines the occasions where it must be played or sung.
Clear Guidelines Issued for Playing and Singing Vande Mataram
The ministry has divided official occasions into three categories:
Events where the national song shall be played
- Civil investiture ceremonies
- Arrival and departure of the President at formal state functions
- Before and after the President’s address to the nation
- Arrival and departure of Governors or Lieutenant Governors at formal state functions
- When the national flag is brought on parade
Events where it shall be played and sung with mass participation
- Unfurling of the national flag
- Cultural and ceremonial functions
- Arrival of the President at government or public functions
Events where it may be sung
- School assemblies
- Public events attended by ministers
- Non-ceremonial yet significant gatherings
Officials stated that the aim is to ensure uniformity and dignity in the observance of the national song.
Standing Protocol and Ceremonial Rules are Now Defined
The order clearly states that whenever the official version of Vande Mataram is sung or played, the audience must stand in attention. However, an exception has been made for instances where the song appears as part of a documentary or newsreel, as standing in such cases may disrupt proceedings.
If both the national song and the national anthem are played together, Vande Mataram will precede Jana Gana Mana.Special instructions have also been issued for band performances, including a seven-pace drum roll before the song begins to alert the audience.
Mass Singing to Be Encouraged at Key National Occasions
The guidelines emphasise coordinated mass singing at appropriate events. Choirs may be arranged, and public address systems should ensure participants can sing in unison. Printed lyrics may also be distributed where necessary.
Officials noted that such arrangements would enhance collective participation and promote respect for the national song.
Schools Advised to Promote Respect for National Symbols
Schools have been encouraged to begin the day with community singing of Vande Mataram. The order advises educational institutions to actively promote awareness and respect for:
- The national song
- The national anthem
- The national flag
The government has described the move as part of broader efforts to strengthen patriotic values among students.
Renewed National Focus on the Legacy of Vande Mataram
The directive comes amid renewed national discussion around the song’s history and significance. The government has recently emphasised its cultural and historical importance, particularly its role during the freedom struggle.
Officials said the new framework provides clarity and decorum while reinforcing the symbolic value of Vande Mataram in public life. With formal protocols now in place, the national song enters a new chapter — one defined by structure, uniformity, and a renewed emphasis on collective respect.
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