Full Six Stanza Vande Mataram Now Mandatory at Official Events, Says Report

The Union Home Ministry has made the full six stanza version of the national song Vande Mataram mandatory at several official occasions, according to media reports.

The 3 minute 10 second version, comprising all six stanzas, will now be played or sung at specified government functions. The reported order, issued on January 28, 2026, runs into 10 pages and has been sent to all states, union territories, ministries and constitutional bodies.

Occasions Where It Will Be Mandatory

As per the reported directive, the full version of Vande Mataram will be required:

• At the time of hoisting the national flag.
• On the arrival and departure of the President at any function.
• Before and after an address by the President.
• On the arrival and departure of the Governor or Lieutenant Governor.
• Before and after their speeches.
• If both Vande Mataram and the national anthem Jana Gana Mana are performed at an event, Vande Mataram will be played first, followed by Jana Gana Mana. People present will be required to stand in respect.

Standing Protocol

The Ministry has clarified that when the full official version is played or sung at formal events, the audience must stand. However, if the song is used as part of a newsreel, documentary or film, the audience will not be required to stand to avoid disruption.

About the Song

Vande Mataram was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Bengali in the 1870s. It later became a prominent song during the freedom movement and was regarded as a symbol of reverence for the motherland.

In 1950, after Independence, the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram were adopted as the national song of India.

Previous Practice and Objective

Until now, there was no detailed official protocol governing the rendition of Vande Mataram, unlike the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, which has established rules regarding its duration and presentation.

The reported move aims to ensure uniformity and maintain decorum and dignity during the rendition of national symbols at official functions. The directive will apply to government departments and constitutional institutions across the country.