On 28-1-2026, the Ministry of Home Affairs (‘MHA’) issued a detailed order outlining the official protocols for singing and playing India’s National Song, “Vande Mataram.”
These guidelines direct how National Song should be sung or played at official and public events, ensuring uniformity, decorum, and respect across the country.
Key Points of MHA National Song Guidelines:
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This MHA Order mandates that whenever National song will be sung in any official event or gathering, the full official version of the song will be sung.
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Written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the National Song consists of six stanzas, which together form its full official, with a playtime of approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
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The guidelines emphasize that everyone must stand in attention when the National Song is being played or sung, except where it is played as part of any film/documentary.
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The order specifies that the National Song will be performed during:
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At Civil Investiture ceremonies
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President’s arrival/departure in formal setup
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Before and after the President is addressing the Nation over Radio/TV
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Governor’s arrival/departure in formal setup
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Whenever the National Flag is brought on parade
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The official version of Vande Mataram will be played in mass singing on the following occasions:
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Unfurling of National flag
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Cultural occasions
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Ceremonial function other than parades
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Arrival/departure of the President at non-formal public functions
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Government events
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In all schools
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All school authorities are encouraged to design structured programmes that promote the regular singing of the National Song and the National Anthem, while also promote respect for the National Flag as an integral part of the daily curriculum.
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When the National Song is played by a band, it will be preceded by a drum roll of seven slow-march paces, rising to peak volume and then softening before the song begins. A one-beat pause will be observed before the start.
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In an event where the National Anthem and the National Song are to be performed, “Vande Mataram” will be first in order.