New Delhi, February 11, 2026
The central government has issued new guidelines making the full six-verse version of the national song “Vande Mataram” mandatory at official events. According to a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the song will now be performed before the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” during designated government functions.
The updated protocol outlines when and how the song must be played or sung and clarifies participation requirements.
🇮🇳 What the New Guidelines Say
Under the new rules:
The complete six-verse version of “Vande Mataram,” lasting approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds, must be played or sung at major official functions.
The national song will be performed before the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” when both are part of the same program.
All six stanzas will be included, including four verses that were historically omitted in earlier versions.
The directive applies to events such as:
National flag hoisting ceremonies
Presidential arrivals at official functions
Speeches or addresses to the nation
Government-organized formal programs
Events in government schools and institutions
🏫 Schools Asked to Promote Daily Singing
The Ministry has also encouraged educational institutions to promote the singing of “Vande Mataram” during daily assemblies or important academic programs.
Officials stated that the move aims to enhance awareness and respect for national symbols among students and the public.
🚨 Standing Mandatory During Performance
The guidelines specify that all individuals present must stand as a mark of respect while the national song or anthem is being performed.
However, cinema halls have been excluded from the new directive. This means playing “Vande Mataram” before film screenings in theaters is not mandatory under the updated rules.
📜 Background
“Vande Mataram,” composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the late 19th century, was adopted as India’s national song, while “Jana Gana Mana” serves as the national anthem.
The new protocol formalizes the sequence of performance at official functions and standardizes its duration and format.
