Centre Issues New Guidelines: Standing Mandatory When Vande Mataram is Played at Government Events

The Central Government has issued new guidelines mandating that all attendees must stand in respect whenever Vande Mataram is played at government events, official functions, or government school programs. The Home Ministry order aims to ensure the national song receives the same dignity accorded to other national symbols.

The guidelines establish a clear protocol for presenting Vande Mataram alongside the national anthem.

Full Version to Precede National Anthem

According to media reports, the government has decided that the complete six-verse version of Vande Mataram, lasting approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds, will now be played before Jana Gana Mana at official functions.

If both are sung or played together at any event, Vande Mataram will be presented first, followed by the national anthem. Attendees will be required to stand at attention throughout both renditions.

When Vande Mataram Will Be Played

The new guidelines specify several important government occasions:

• Hoisting of the national flag
• Arrival of the President
• Before and after Presidential addresses to the nation
• Arrival and speeches of Governors
• Civilian honor ceremonies including Padma Awards (when President is present)

Cinema Halls Exempted

The government has clarified that these rules will not apply to cinemas. Playing Vande Mataram before films or requiring audiences to stand is not mandatory under the new guidelines.

Context and Intent

Officials stated the guidelines are not intended to pressure anyone but to establish a clear, uniform system for respecting Vande Mataram.

The move follows controversy during Parliament's winter session last year when some organizations objected to the song's recitation, causing an uproar. The new guidelines are seen as an effort to strengthen the tradition of Vande Mataram and reinforce national spirit.