Centre Mandates Six Stanzas of Vande Mataram

The Union home ministry has issued fresh guidelines mandating that all six stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’, originally composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, be sung at official functions and educational institutions. The order, dated February 6, 2026, defines the “official version” of the national song and prescribes detailed protocols for its rendition. The move coincides with the 150th anniversary of the song’s creation.

Official Version and Duration Fixed

The ministry has specified that the complete six-stanza version shall be performed at government events. The duration for singing or playing the national song has been fixed at 3 minutes and 10 seconds. Earlier, only the first two stanzas were commonly used at official occasions.

The guidelines also mandate that all persons present must stand in attention when the song is played. However, this will not be compulsory in cinema halls if the song features as part of a film or newsreel, citing potential disturbance and obstruction to viewing.

Mandatory Occasions for Rendition

‘Vande Mataram’ will be played when the national flag is brought to a parade and at all civilian award ceremonies and official state functions attended by the President of India. It shall be played both on the arrival and departure of the President. The song will also precede and follow presidential addresses broadcast on state media such as Akashwani and Doordarshan.

At the state level, it will be played at official functions marking the arrival and departure of governors or lieutenant governors. Schools across the country are required to incorporate group singing of the national song in morning assemblies. Informal public events attended by ministers may also include its rendition.

Protocol and Ceremonial Instructions

The ministry has laid down ceremonial norms for performance. A drumroll using instruments such as the mridang or trumpet will precede the band rendition. In marching drills, seven steps will lead into the start of the song.

The revised instructions formalise uniformity in performance and emphasise due honour to the national song. The directive underscores the government’s intent to standardise its rendition across official and educational platforms during commemorative celebrations.

Important Facts for Exams

• ‘Vande Mataram’ was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in the 19th century.
• The song was first published in the novel ‘Anandamath’ in 1882.
• Only the first two stanzas were earlier adopted for official use.
• The national song is distinct from the national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’.

Historical and Constitutional Context

‘Vande Mataram’ played a significant role during India’s freedom movement and became a symbol of anti-colonial resistance. While it holds national song status, the Constitution of India does not prescribe it as the national anthem, a position held by ‘Jana Gana Mana’. The latest directive seeks to reinforce its ceremonial presence in public life during its sesquicentennial year.