The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a fresh set of guidelines regarding the National Song, Vande Mataram. These new rules are part of the 150th anniversary celebrations of the song. The official directive was issued on January 28, 2026, and states that the National Song will now hold a specific sequence and protocol at all government functions and public events across the country.
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Key Rules for Singing and Playing Vande Mataram
According to the new 10-page protocol, Vande Mataram must be played before the National Anthem whenever both are performed at the same event. The official version of the song now consists of all six stanzas, reversing a previous decision from 1937. This version lasts for about 3 minutes and 10 seconds. The audience must stand to attention whenever this official version is played to show respect. An exception is made for cinema halls, newsreels, and documentaries where standing is not required to prevent disruption.
Mandatory Occasions and Performance Protocol
The government has identified specific events where the performance of the National Song is now mandatory for state bodies and agencies. State governments have been directed to ensure strict compliance with these new instructions. The rules aim to provide the same dignity and uniformity to Vande Mataram that is currently given to the National Anthem.
- State Functions: The song must be played during the arrival and departure of the President, Governors, or Lieutenant Governors.
- Official Ceremonies: It is mandatory during the unfurling of the National Flag and civil investiture ceremonies like the Padma Awards.
- Musical Standard: When a band plays the song, it must be preceded by a drum roll of seven paces in slow march or a fanfare.
- Educational Institutions: The government recommends that all schools start their day with mass community singing of the song in assemblies.
- Media Broadcasts: The song will be played immediately before and after the President address to the nation on TV and Radio.
