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Bengaluru : The Karnataka government has made the singing of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ mandatory at all state government programs and official functions; however, the Congress government in Karnataka has issued an order specifying that only two stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’ are to be sung at state-level events.
Nevertheless, the order notes that the full song comprising all six stanzas will be sung in the presence of the President, Prime Minister, or Governor, and at events represented by the Central Government.
This directive from the DK Shivakumar-led government in Karnataka comes amidst Central Government instructions mandating the singing of all six stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’. The order acknowledges the song’s pivotal role in fostering nationalism, unity, and patriotism during India’s freedom struggle.
Last month, the Congress Working Committee decided to adhere to its 1937 resolution, which stipulated that only the first two stanzas would be sung at party events.
According to the government order dated September 8, 2026, this decision was taken based on guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The order has been issued in the name of the Governor of Karnataka.
The translated text of the order, originally issued in Kannada, states: “The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has issued guidelines regarding the official version of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and its rendition or playing at various government and public events; these must be followed according to the occasion.
The state government has deemed it necessary to maintain uniformity, respect, and proper protocol regarding the playing or singing of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ at various government programs and functions held in the state, in keeping with the nature and occasion of the event.”
Report – Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)
