Vande Mataram: Government Guidelines for India’s National Song
The Union Home Ministry has released official guidelines regarding “Vande Mataram,” the National Song of India. These rules explain when the song should be played, how it should be sung, and the respect required during these occasions.
I. The Official Version of the National Song
“Vande Mataram” was composed by Shri Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. The government notification confirms the original lyrics as the official version.
- Duration: The official version of the National Song takes approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds to sing or play.
II. When to Play the National Song
The official version is played during specific formal events, including:
- Civil Ceremonies: During official investiture ceremonies.
- Presidential Events: At formal state functions when the President arrives or departs.
- National Broadcasts: Before and after the President addresses the nation on All India Radio or Doordarshan.
- State Functions: During formal ceremonies in States or Union Territories when the Governor or Lieutenant Governor arrives or departs.
- Parades: When the National Flag is brought out during a parade.
- Special Orders: Any other occasion specifically designated by the Government of India.
Performance Protocol: When a band plays the National Song, a drum roll will signal the start to alert the audience. The drum roll starts softly, gets louder, and then fades slightly before the song begins.
III. Guidelines for Collective Singing
In many cases, the National Song should be sung by the group rather than just played as an instrumental. These occasions include:
- Flag Hoisting: During cultural events or ceremonies (other than parades) where the National Flag is raised. Organizers should provide trained singers and sound systems so everyone can join in.
- Public Ceremonies: At government or public events when the President arrives or leaves.
- Ministerial Events: At important functions where Ministers are present. While these may not be formal state ceremonies, collective singing is encouraged to show respect to the Motherland.
- Schools: All schools should begin the day by singing the National Song together. Schools are encouraged to help students learn and respect the National Song, National Anthem, and the National Flag.
IV. General Instructions and Etiquette
To maintain the dignity of the National Song, the following rules apply:
- Standing at Attention: Everyone must stand at attention whenever the National Song is played or sung.
- Cinemas and Documentaries: If the song is played as part of a newsreel or documentary in a cinema, the audience does not need to stand, as this could disturb the screening.
- Order of Performance: On occasions where both the National Song and the National Anthem are performed, the National Song is played first.
