Tamil Thai Vazhthu Made Mandatory at Tamil Nadu Events

Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly in Chennai unanimously adopted a resolution on 10 August 2026 making “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” the first song at the beginning of all official events in the State. The resolution applies to government departments, universities, educational institutions, public sector undertakings, and other public organisations in Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Thai Vazhthu as State Song

“Tamil Thai Vazhthu” is the State Song of Tamil Nadu and is associated with Tamil linguistic identity. The song’s lyrics come from the 1891 play Manonmaniam, written by Manonmaniam Sundaranar, a Tamil scholar and playwright.

Assembly Resolution and Voice Vote

The resolution was moved by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Speaker J. C. D. Prabhakar announced that the motion was adopted unanimously through a voice vote, with support from the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, and BJP.

Official Song Sequence in Government Functions

The resolution was linked to a Union Ministry of Home Affairs directive dated 9 July 2026 that instructed “Vande Mataram” to be sung at the beginning of official functions. The Tamil Nadu Assembly action followed a convocation controversy at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, where “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” was placed after “Vande Mataram” and the National Anthem.

Important Facts for Exams

• “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” is the State Song of Tamil Nadu.
• The song’s lyrics are from the 1891 play Manonmaniam.
• Manonmaniam Sundaranar is associated with Tamil literature and the Dravidian literary tradition.
• “Vande Mataram” is a national song of India and is often used in official ceremonies.

Historical Orders and State Recognition

The Tamil Nadu government first directed that “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” be sung at government functions through an order dated 23 November 1970. Reports also place the formal declaration of the song as the State Song on 12 December 2021 or 17 December 2021.