New Delhi, Feb 11: The Union Home Ministry has directed that all six stanzas of the National Song Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, must be sung first whenever the National Song and the National Anthem Jana Gana Mana are played together.
In an order dated January 28, the Ministry laid out the first set of protocols for singing the National Song, specifying that the six stanzas, which last about 3 minutes and 10 seconds, should be performed at official functions such as the arrival of the President, unfurling of the tricolour, and speeches by governors.
“When the National Song and the National Anthem are sung or played, the National Song will be performed first,” the order stated, adding that the assembly must stand at attention while it is sung.
The order clarified: “Whenever the official version of the National Song is performed, the audience shall stand. However, if the song is played as part of a newsreel or documentary, standing is not expected, as it may interrupt the film and create disorder rather than enhance the dignity of the song.”
In schools, the day’s work should begin with the playing of the National Song.
The Centre is observing the 150th year of Vande Mataram.
According to the order, the official version of the National Song shall be played with mass singing on occasions such as the unfurling of the National Flag, cultural events, ceremonial functions (other than parades), and the arrival of the President at government or public functions.
“There should be an adequate public audition system so that the gathering can sing in unison with the choir. Printed lyrics of the official version may be distributed wherever needed,” it added.
The order emphasized that the National Song should be recited with mass singing at all permitted occasions.
“The National Song may also be sung at significant events, even if not strictly ceremonial, particularly in the presence of Ministers. Accompaniment by instruments and mass singing is desirable,” it said.
While it is not possible to provide an exhaustive list of all occasions for singing the National Song, the order noted: “There is no objection to mass singing of the National Song as long as it is done respectfully as a salutation to the motherland and proper decorum is maintained.”
In schools, the order suggested that programs should include community singing of the National Song and encourage respect for the National Anthem and the National Flag.
“School authorities should ensure sufficient provision in their schedules for promoting the singing of the National Song and Anthem, as well as respect for the National Flag among students,” it concluded. (Agencies)
