Bengal govt makes Vande Mataram compulsory in all madrasas, extends school directive

The directive states that Vande Mataram will be sung during morning assemblies across recognised, aided, and unaided madrasas, marking a significant education-related policy shift, as per the report.

Morning Assemblies to Include National Song

According to the order, Vande Mataram will now be included in daily morning prayers in all government schools across the state. The government has also reportedly urged private schools to adopt the practice.

The directive has come into effect immediately.

In a post on X, Adhikari said that, “In supersession of all previous orders and practices, the Government of West Bengal has mandated the singing of National Song of Bharat — Vande Mataram — during school assembly prayers before commencement of classes in all schools under the School Education Department across West Bengal, effective immediately.”

Historical Context of ‘Vande Mataram’

Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, holds a significant place in India’s nationalist history and is widely regarded as the national song.

Centre’s Earlier Guidelines on National Song

Earlier in February this year, the central government reportedly accorded Vande Mataram a status comparable in prominence to the national anthem Jana Gana Mana.

The Centre had also directed that all six stanzas of the song be sung at official events, including ceremonial occasions such as the arrival of the President, flag hoisting, and gubernatorial addresses.

According to the guidelines, Vande Mataram should be performed before the national anthem when both are sung together.

The directive also specifies that attendees should stand at attention during the singing of the national song.

However, the order clarifies that it will not apply in cinema halls when the song is used in films or newsreels.