CONTROVERSY REGARDING DECISION TO SING ONLY TWO STANZAS OF VANDE MATARAM:MAHENDRA TIWARI

CONTROVERSY REGARDING DECISION TO SING ONLY TWO STANZAS OF VANDE MATARAM:MAHENDRA TIWARI

21-AUG-ENG 9

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA------------------------'Vande Mataram' is not merely a song. It is a national song deeply intertwined with the memories of the Indian freedom movement, national consciousness, and a spirit of patriotism—a song that ignited extraordinary enthusiasm among the generations that struggled against British rule. That is why, whenever a political controversy arises regarding the manner of its rendition or any specific part of it, the issue transcends mere music or lyrics; it becomes linked to national sentiment and the interpretation of history.

On August 19, 2026, the Congress Working Committee clarified that only the first two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' would be sung at party events. The Congress did not present this as a new decision but rather as a continuation of a historic decision taken in 1937. At that time, the party had decided to adopt only the opening two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' for public and national gatherings.

The Congress argues that the initial two stanzas embody reverence for the land, adoration of the motherland, and a spirit of nationalism that all communities can readily accept. Concerns had arisen back then that the inclusion of religious symbols and references to a divine feminine form in the subsequent stanzas might lead to the national song being perceived as linked to a specific religious identity. Consequently, in 1937, the Congress chose a path it deemed conducive to broad national unity.

However, circumstances have changed today. The Central Government and the Bharatiya Janata Party are making efforts to accord greater prominence to the full version of 'Vande Mataram'. In 2026, the song was rendered with special reverence in Parliament, and its historical significance was highlighted anew on Independence Day. Naturally, this has raised the question of whether the national song should be accepted in its entirety or if the first two stanzas—consistent with the tradition established during the freedom movement—should be considered sufficient. The Bharatiya Janata Party has criticized the Congress's decision, portraying it as a sign of disrespect towards the national song. On the other hand, the Congress maintains that accusing it of insulting the national song amounts to viewing history incompletely. According to the party, the 1937 decision was taken with national unity in mind prior to independence, and that sentiment remains relevant today. Thus, both sides are presenting differing historical perspectives regarding the same song.

The real issue is that turning national symbols into tools for political rivalry can undermine their dignity. The history of ‘Vande Mataram’ is not the exclusive property of any single political party; it is a legacy of the freedom struggle to which people of diverse ideologies, languages, regions, and communities contributed. Therefore, any debate surrounding this song should prioritize history, facts, and constitutional propriety over accusations and political acrimony.

It is also important to understand that singing only the first two stanzas does not, in itself, prove a lack of patriotism. Similarly, an individual who respects the entire song should not be viewed with suspicion simply because they support its full rendition. It is inappropriate to evaluate patriotism solely based on how many lines of the national song a person sings. .sings it. His conduct towards the nation, his allegiance to the Constitution, and his behavior towards the country's citizens are equally important.

Today, the need is to convey the historical significance of ‘Vande Mataram’ to the new generation rather than turning it into a subject of political controversy. Young people should be informed about the era in which this song became a symbol of national awakening, the spirit with which freedom fighters embraced it, and the reasons why independent India accorded it the honor of the National Song.

The Congress party's stance on holding two positions is a political decision, but it would be inappropriate to make this the ultimate litmus test for patriotism. Similarly, regarding the singing of the entire song as the sole proof of patriotism is also not appropriate. India's strength lies in its diversity. Therefore, the best approach regarding ‘Vande Mataram’ is one that respects history, preserves the national spirit, and ensures that no Indian citizen feels alienated from the nation due to their faith or identity. True respect for the National Song will be realized only when the sentiment of devotion to the motherland associated with it remains alive in the heart of every Indian, rising above politics.