In a significant move, the Ministry of Home Affairs has made it mandatory to play or sing the full six-verse version of Vande Mataram, lasting 3 minutes and 10 seconds, before the national anthem at all government offices and special occasions. The ministry has clarified that whenever both the national anthem and Vande Mataram are performed, the latter must always precede the former.
Official Guidelines
According to the Home Ministry’s directive, Vande Mataram must be performed at the hoisting of the national flag, during presidential events, and at other official occasions. The order specifies that during the performance, audiences are required to stand at attention.
The directive, issued on 28 January through a 10-page notification, outlines that the six-verse version of Vande Mataram must be played or sung:
- Before and after the President’s speeches and official engagements.
- Before and after the Governor’s addresses.
- At the hoisting of the national flag.
- At other government-sanctioned ceremonies and events.
Clarifications on Performance Protocol
The ministry emphasized that when the national anthem is played as part of a film or broadcast, audiences are not expected to stand, as doing so could disrupt the presentation and create confusion rather than uphold its dignity.
Scope of the Order
The notification applies to all states, union territories, ministries, and constitutional bodies. It also lists programs and venues where the song may be performed, including school assemblies. Until now, there were no official rules regarding the performance of Vande Mataram at such events.
This directive marks a step toward formalizing Vande Mataram’s role in official ceremonies, ensuring that the national song is accorded a place of prominence in India’s patriotic rituals.
