The Centre has released new comprehensive guidelines outlining the official protocol for the rendition of India’s national song, Vande Mataram. These guidelines specify how and when the song should be performed at government functions and the expected conduct of the audience, especially in relation to the national anthem. The Union Home Ministry issued these directives to formalize the status and ceremonial role of Vande Mataram in public and official events nationwide.
The official version of Vande Mataram, which consists of six stanzas and lasts around 3 minutes and 10 seconds, is to be performed or played during significant state occasions as per the guidelines. These occasions include events like the unfurling of the national flag, formal arrival and departure ceremonies of the President and Governors at official programs, and before and after their scheduled addresses at such functions.
One key aspect of the directive emphasizes that when both Vande Mataram and the national anthem are part of a program, the national song must be rendered before the national anthem. The guidelines also state that audience members are expected to stand at attention during both performances as a sign of respect. Educational institutions have been encouraged by the Home Ministry to promote the singing of Vande Mataram during daily school assemblies and important institutional events to enhance awareness and respect for national symbols among students and the general public.
The guidelines recommend that when Vande Mataram is performed by a band, it should be preceded by a drum roll or a bugle call to formally signal the start of the rendition. However, specific exemptions have been provided for cinema halls and film screenings. Audiences are not required to stand when Vande Mataram is played as part of a film’s soundtrack, as this could disrupt the viewing experience and lead to confusion among viewers. The move aims to address a longstanding gap in formal protocol concerning the national song’s rendition and observance.
