New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry on January 28, 2026, issued a new directive regarding the national song Vande Mataram, formally defining a protocol for its performance. The order mandates that the full six-stanza version, lasting 3 minutes and 10 seconds, be sung or played at government functions and educational institutions, marking the first official standardisation of the national song.
Key Details of the Directive
- Full Six Stanzas Mandatory: All six stanzas of Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, must be performed in full. Previously, only the first two stanzas were commonly used.
- Sequence with National Anthem: When Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are performed together, the national song must be sung first, followed by the national anthem.
- Standing Protocol: Attendees are required to stand at attention during the song. Exceptions apply in cases such as cinema screenings where standing may disrupt the audience.
- Applicable Venues and Occasions:
- Flag hoisting ceremonies
- Functions attended by the President or Governors
- Events involving Governors or Lieutenant Governors
- Schools and colleges
- Civil award ceremonies
- Morning assemblies and other official, cultural, or ceremonial events
Objectives of the Directive
- Standardisation: Ensure uniform practice and protocol for performing Vande Mataram across government and public events.
- Cultural Restoration: Reinforce the historical and cultural significance of the song by performing the original six-stanza composition in full.
- 150th Anniversary Commemoration: The directive aligns with year-long celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.
- Unity and Respect: Promote a coordinated and respectful observance when the national song and anthem are performed together, fostering national unity.
Reactions and Criticism
- Jamiat Ulama‑i‑Hind leader Maulana Arshad Madani criticised the directive, calling it a violation of religious freedom and constitutional rights. He urged consideration under Article 25, noting that some stanzas contain highly devotional content.
- Some political parties and commentators also criticised the move as a historical “rewrite,” arguing that restoring the original six-stanza version over the truncated form adopted by the Constituent Assembly is politically and historically contentious.
Summary
* The government has officially mandated the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram.
* The song must be performed at public, government, and educational events.
* Attendees must stand attentively, and the protocol applies to ceremonial occasions such as flag hoisting and presidential or gubernatorial functions.
* The directive aims to ensure standardisation, national unity, and the restoration of India’s cultural heritage.
Sources: Times of India, Indian Express, Economic Times, Moneycontrol, Deccan Herald.
