PolityGS-IGS-II· 1 min read
Vande Mataram Controversy and National Symbols
Why in news?
Discussions and protests arose regarding the protocol and rendition of 'Vande Mataram' and other national songs/invocations during Independence Day celebrations across various states and by different political groups.
Key points
- Disputes over the order of singing 'Vande Mataram', 'Jana Gana Mana', and state songs like 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu' at official functions.
- Allegations by BJP against Congress leaders for 'objecting' to the full rendition of 'Vande Mataram'.
- Parallel Independence Day celebrations by groups like Rashtraksha Samithi protesting the exclusion of full 'Vande Mataram' rendition in official programmes.
- The significance of 'Vande Mataram' as a symbol of the freedom struggle and national consciousness.
Background & context
'Vande Mataram', written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. Its rendition and status have historically been subjects of debate and national discourse.
★ Prelims fact capsule
'Vande Mataram' was first sung at the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Indian culture and heritage; Indian National Movement. GS Paper II: Constitution of India - Provisions relating to national symbols; Polity - Secularism.