Vande Mataram to be played before Jana Gana Mana, says Centre to States and government bodies

Vande Mataram to be played before Jana Gana Mana, says Centre to States and government bodies

**New Directive Mandates “Vande Mataram” Precedence in Official Proceedings**

**New Delhi** – In a significant shift concerning national salutations, the Central government has issued new guidelines stipulating that the national song, “Vande Mataram,” will now precede the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” in official capacities. The directive, uploaded to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) website on February 6th, outlines specific protocols for its implementation across government bodies and state administrations. While no formal public announcement or statement accompanied the release of these guidelines, their inclusion on the MHA’s official platform signifies a clear instruction to all concerned entities.

The newly established protocol specifies that whenever the official rendition of “Vande Mataram,” which typically spans approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds, is performed or played, the audience present shall stand to attention. This directive aims to standardize the observance of both national songs and elevate the prominence of “Vande Mataram” in official settings. The MHA’s website now serves as the repository for these updated guidelines, making them accessible to all government departments and agencies for compliance.

This directive marks a notable departure from previous practices, where “Jana Gana Mana” has historically held the primary position in official ceremonies and gatherings. The rationale behind this reordering, as inferred from the nature of the directive, is likely to foster a deeper sense of nationalistic sentiment and underscore the historical significance of “Vande Mataram” in India’s freedom struggle. The song, penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, has long been an emblem of patriotism and has played a crucial role in galvanizing public spirit during various historical junctures.

The implementation of these guidelines is expected to be observed across a broad spectrum of governmental functions, including but not limited to, official ceremonies, public meetings, and educational institutions under government purview. The requirement for the audience to stand to attention during the performance of “Vande Mataram” emphasizes the solemnity and respect intended for this national symbol. This measure is designed to ensure a uniform and dignified observance, reinforcing the importance of national heritage and pride.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, through this silent but impactful directive, has set a new precedent for national salutations. The uploaded guidelines are comprehensive and aim to leave no room for ambiguity in their interpretation or application. While the absence of a formal press conference might suggest a deliberate approach to allow for gradual assimilation, the official upload signifies the government’s firm intent to see these changes enacted. This move is anticipated to spark discussions and potentially lead to a renewed appreciation for the historical and cultural context of both national songs.

In conclusion, the Central government’s directive to play “Vande Mataram” before “Jana Gana Mana” in official capacities represents a significant administrative adjustment. The emphasis on standing to attention during the rendition of the national song underscores the government’s commitment to promoting national pride and historical consciousness. As these guidelines are disseminated and implemented across the nation, it will be interesting to observe the broader impact on public discourse and the collective observance of national symbols. The move is poised to redefine the ceremonial landscape of official gatherings, ensuring that “Vande Mataram” receives its due recognition in the pantheon of national emblems.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.