In a significant move ahead of the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, the Union Home Ministry (MHA) has issued a fresh order making it mandatory to sing or play all six stanzas of the national song at official functions and specified public occasions.
The directive, dated February 6, 2026, lays down a detailed “official version” of the song and clearly defines when and how it must be performed. The order also specifies the duration, protocol, and occasions for singing or playing the national song, while providing certain exceptions.
All Six Stanzas Now Officially Recognized
The new Home Ministry order states that the complete version of “Vande Mataram” including the last four stanzas that were not commonly used in official events will now be part of the official rendition.
Originally written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the song consists of six stanzas. Over the decades, only the first two stanzas were commonly sung in many official functions. According to the new directive, the full composition will now be recognized as the official version at designated government occasions.
The move coincides with the celebration of 150 years since the creation of “Vande Mataram.”
Fixed Duration: 3 Minutes and 10 Seconds
The order clearly states that when the national song is played or sung in its official format, its duration should be 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
This ensures uniformity across the country and avoids variations in length or performance style during official functions.
Government departments and institutions have been asked to strictly follow the prescribed format.
Where ‘Vande Mataram’ Must Be Played or Sung
The MHA has listed several occasions where the national song will be mandatory:
1. Official State Functions
The song must be played at all formal government events organized by state authorities.
2. Civilian Award and Honour Ceremonies
All award distribution ceremonies and official honour functions must include the national song.
3. Presidential Events
The song will be played when the President of India arrives at or departs from government functions. This applies both to arrival and departure.
4. National Flag Ceremonies
Whenever the national flag is brought to a parade or hoisted during official events, “Vande Mataram” must be played or sung.
5. Government-Approved Occasions
The Centre has also clarified that the song may be played at other occasions if the Government of India issues specific instructions.
Standing Protocol: What the Public Must Do
According to the new guidelines:
All members of the audience present when the national song is being played must stand in attention posture.
Proper decorum and respect must be maintained during the performance.
The instructions emphasize that the national song must be treated with dignity and honour at all times.
Important Exception: Cinema Halls
One major clarification in the order relates to cinema halls.
The ministry has stated that standing will not be mandatory in cinema halls if “Vande Mataram” is played as part of a film or newsreel.
The reason cited is that forcing the audience to stand during such screenings could interfere with viewing and potentially disturb peace and order.
This exception aims to balance respect for the national song with practical considerations in entertainment settings.
New Rule for Schools: Group Singing in Morning Assemblies
A key highlight of the directive is its impact on educational institutions.
The Home Ministry has directed that:
- All schools must incorporate group singing of “Vande Mataram” during morning assemblies.
- The singing must follow official guidelines.
- This means schools across India will now regularly perform the national song as part of daily assemblies.
The move is expected to strengthen awareness of the song’s historical and cultural significance among students.
Cultural Events and Flag Hoisting Ceremonies
Apart from formal state events, the song will also be sung at:
- Cultural programmes where the national flag is hoisted
- Government-organized public gatherings
- Events attended by constitutional authorities
Additionally, it may be sung upon the arrival or departure of the President of India at public functions, even outside strictly formal state ceremonies.
Background: Why Only Two Stanzas Were Commonly Used Earlier
Historically, only the first two stanzas of “Vande Mataram” were commonly used in official functions. The remaining four stanzas were not part of the regular official version.
The new order formally recognizes all six stanzas as part of the official format for designated occasions.
The government’s decision is being linked to the 150th anniversary celebrations of the song’s creation.
Significance of the 150th Anniversary
The issuance of the directive comes at a symbolic time.
The year marks 150 years since “Vande Mataram” was composed. The government has described the move as part of broader efforts to honour India’s cultural and historical heritage.
Officials have indicated that the anniversary will be celebrated through various national events and programmes.
What This Means for Government Departments
All central and state government departments will need to:
- Ensure correct version and duration are followed
- Train staff and event organizers in proper protocol
- Maintain discipline and decorum during performances
- Coordinate with educational institutions for compliance
Clear communication will be necessary to implement the guidelines smoothly across the country.
Public Reaction and Debate
As with many policy decisions involving national symbols, the directive has sparked public discussion.
Supporters argue that recognizing the full composition:
- Preserves cultural heritage
- Strengthens national pride
- Marks an important historical milestone
Others believe practical clarity will be crucial to avoid confusion during implementation.
Regardless of opinions, the order sets a clear legal and procedural framework for the performance of the national song.
Difference Between National Song and National Anthem
It is important to note that “Vande Mataram” is India’s national song, while “Jana Gana Mana” remains the national anthem.
Both hold special constitutional and emotional importance.
The new guidelines apply specifically to the national song and do not alter existing protocols for the national anthem.
Implementation Timeline
Since the order was issued on February 6, 2026, government departments and institutions are expected to implement the guidelines immediately.
Schools, event organizers, and state authorities will likely receive detailed instructions to ensure uniform execution across the country.
Key Highlights at a Glance
- All six stanzas of “Vande Mataram” now officially recognized
- Official duration fixed at 3 minutes 10 seconds
- Mandatory at state functions, award ceremonies, and presidential events
- Audience must stand in attention posture
- Not mandatory to stand in cinema halls
- Group singing required in school morning assemblies
- Directive coincides with 150th anniversary celebrations
Final Thoughts
The Home Ministry’s 2026 directive marks a significant policy step regarding the national song “Vande Mataram.”
By formalizing the full six-stanza version and clearly outlining performance protocols, the government aims to standardize its use at official and public events.
As the country prepares to celebrate 150 years of the song’s creation, the new guidelines are expected to shape how “Vande Mataram” is performed in schools, government functions, and national ceremonies going forward.
The coming months will show how institutions adapt to the updated rules and how the public responds to this renewed emphasis on one of India’s most iconic patriotic compositions.
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