Indian Government Mandates Vande Mataram Before National Anthem

The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh directives stipulating that the national song 'Vande Mataram' will be played or sung prior to the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' during public events. The guidelines were published on the MHA's website on February 6, though no official announcement was made at that time.

According to the 10-page order, the complete version of 'Vande Mataram,' which lasts approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds, is to be performed at governmental functions and in educational institutions. Attendees are required to stand in attention while the song is being played or sung.

Exceptions to this rule have been noted, allowing audiences to remain seated if the national song is featured within a film or documentary, given that standing might disrupt the viewing experience.

The directive details various scenarios in which 'Vande Mataram' should be performed, including during the arrival and departure of the President and Governor at formal state events, as well as during the unfurling of the national flag.

The instructions also indicate that there must be a roll of drums prior to the performance of the song when played by a band to alert the audience of its commencement. Upon the unfurling of the national flag and cultural ceremonies, mass singing of the song is encouraged, coordinated by a choir with a public address system to ensure a unified performance.

While the MHA has not provided an exhaustive list of occasions for playing the national song, it noted that it could be included at significant events attended by government officials. The MHA emphasised that all instances of singing should be conducted with respect towards the motherland, upholding proper decorum.

Schools are particularly urged to start the day's activities with communal singing of 'Vande Mataram,' as part of efforts to instil respect for national symbols among students. The MHA has called for adequate provisions to promote the singing of both the national song and anthem, as well as respect for the national flag within educational programmes.