The Union Home Ministry has rolled out comprehensive new guidelines elevating the ceremonial status of Vande Mataram at government events. Under the revised protocol, the officially approved six stanza version lasting around 3 minutes and 10 seconds will be performed at designated state functions, giving the national song a more defined place in official proceedings.
The directive applies to major government ceremonies, including civilian honours such as the Padma Awards, and events attended by the President of India. On such occasions, the national song will be rendered both at the President’s arrival and departure. In a significant addition, attendees at these official events will be required to stand during its performance. However, the rule does not extend to cinema halls or similar public venues.
To further reinforce national protocol, schools across the country have been instructed to begin the day with the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, which has a standard duration of 52 seconds. Officials say these measures aim to ensure uniformity in ceremonial practices across institutions and eliminate ambiguity about when and how national symbols should be observed. Detailed instructions regarding the approved version of Vande Mataram and its duration have already been circulated to concerned authorities.
The move comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a year-long celebration marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. The commemorative programme began with the release of a special postage stamp and a commemorative coin honouring the national song a gesture underscoring its historical significance in India’s freedom struggle.
Together, the new protocol and the anniversary celebrations signal a broader effort to reaffirm the song’s place in India’s national life. As institutions adapt to the updated guidelines, Vande Mataram is set to feature more prominently in the country’s formal and symbolic landscape.
