New Guidelines Define Official Rendition of Vande Mataram

Union Home Ministry Standardises National Song Protocols

The Union home ministry has issued updated guidelines prescribing the official rendition of Vande Mataram , marking the 150th anniversary of its composition by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee . The directive establishes uniform performance standards across government ceremonies and educational institutions.

Official Version and Duration

The ministry has designated the full six-stanza composition as the “official version.” The duration for singing or instrumental performance has been fixed at 3 minutes and 10 seconds , replacing earlier practice where only the first two stanzas were typically used. Individuals present during formal renditions are required to stand in attention. An exemption applies in cinema halls when the song appears within films or newsreels.

Prescribed Ceremonial Use

The national song will be played at events involving the national flag at parades, civilian award ceremonies, and state functions attended by the President of India. It will accompany both the arrival and departure of the President and frame presidential broadcasts on state media. Similar protocols extend to governors and lieutenant governors at state-level functions. Schools nationwide must incorporate group singing during morning assemblies.

Performance Protocol

Ceremonial instructions specify a drumroll using instruments such as the mridang or trumpet before band renditions. In marching contexts, a defined step sequence precedes the performance. These measures aim to ensure consistency, decorum, and due respect.

Historical Context

Composed in the 19th century, the song first appeared in the novel Anandamath . While it holds national song status, it is distinct from the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana .

Exam-Focused Points

• Official version: Six stanzas of Vande Mataram.

• Performance duration: 3 min 10 sec .

• First published in Anandamath (1882) .

• National song ≠ National anthem.

• Standing protocol mandated at formal events.