The central government has made the six-stanza version of the national song 'Vande Mataram' mandatory at official events. The directive applies to national flag hoisting, and before and after the arrival and speeches of the President and Governors. The rendition's duration is set at 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
New Delhi, February 11, 2026: The central government has issued new guidelines for the singing and playing of 'Vande Mataram'. According to these, the six-stanza version of this national song is now mandatory in government programs, with a total duration of 3 minutes and 10 seconds. The rule applies during national flag hoisting, before and after the President's arrival, speeches, or address to the nation. Similarly, it is required before and after the arrival and speeches of Governors.
The government's aim is to ensure respect for the national song and uniformity in its presentation under official protocol. The singing or playing of the song will be done only within the specified time limit in all government events.
'Vande Mataram' was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, first published on November 7, 1875, in the Bangadarshan journal, and later included in his novel Anandamath (1882). It became a symbol of India's freedom struggle. As India's national song, it depicts the motherland as a nurturing mother.
Sources state that the directive particularly applies to the unfurling of the Tricolour and the President's arrival at formal events. No contradictions were found.
