Early Times Report
JAMMU, Feb 13: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), District Jammu South Media Secretary Rohiin Chandan has expressed strong support and hailed the recent decision by the Union Government, through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), mandating that the national song Vande Mataram be played or sung before the national anthem Jana Gana Mana at official events where both are performed together. The guidelines, outlined in an MHA order dated January 28, 2026, and recently uploaded on the ministry's website, specify that the full official version of Vande Mataram-comprising all six stanzas and lasting approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds-must precede Jana Gana Mana. The directive applies to government functions, schools, civilian award ceremonies such as the Padma awards, events involving the president or governors, and other notified occasions. It further emphasizes that attendees must stand at attention during the rendition of the national song, underscoring the deep respect owed to this iconic composition. Rohiin Chandan described the move as a "historic and patriotic step" that restores full dignity to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's timeless creation, which has inspired generations of Indians in their struggle for freedom and continues to evoke profound national pride. "Vande Mataram is not merely a song; it is the soul-stirring invocation of Mother India that fueled our independence movement. By ensuring it is performed first and in its complete form, the government is honoring our cultural heritage and correcting a long-standing historical oversight," Chandan stated. He highlighted that Vande Mataram, originally published in 1882 as part of Bankim Chandra's novel Anandamath, became a rallying cry during the freedom struggle. The song's adoption as the national song by the Constituent Assembly in 1950, with its first two stanzas recognized officially, has now been expanded under these guidelines to include the complete version. This, according to Chandan, reaffirms the BJP-led government's commitment to preserving and promoting India's rich civilizational ethos.
"The decision reflects the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi and the dedication of our government to instill patriotism in every citizen, especially the younger generation. In schools across the country, starting the day with the full Vande Mataram will nurture a sense of unity, devotion to the nation, and pride in our roots," he added. |
