Maharashtra schools will sing the complete version of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ from October 31 to November 7 . The state government’s School Education Department issued a circular on October 27 , directing all schools across Maharashtra to observe this directive. The initiative marks the 150th anniversary of the song, penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, which falls on October 31 .
Currently, schools in Maharashtra typically sing only the first two stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’. The new circular mandates the singing of the full version across all mediums of education for the specified week. This temporary change aims to honor the song’s historical and cultural significance in India.
Historical Context of ‘Vande Mataram’
Authored by Bengali writer Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, ‘Vande Mataram’ holds a revered place in Indian history. It first appeared in his 1882 novel, ‘Anandamath’. The song quickly became a powerful anthem during India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. Its verses stirred patriotic fervor and inspired countless revolutionaries and leaders. The song was first publicly sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896 at the Indian National Congress session. While the first stanza was later adopted as India’s national song, the complete composition has deep roots in the nation’s independence movement.
Beyond the vocal rendition, schools are also instructed to organize exhibitions. These displays will depict the rich history and importance of ‘Vande Mataram’. The exhibitions aim to educate students about the song’s legacy and its role in shaping national identity. This educational component provides a deeper understanding of the directive’s purpose.
Origin of the Directive
The Maharashtra School Education Department’s order followed a specific request. On February 18 , Radha Bhide of the Thane-based Rajmata Jijabai Trust wrote to Pankaj Bhoyar, Minister of State for School Education. The letter formally demanded that the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ be sung in schools during the October 31 to November 7 period. This request eventually led to the government’s statewide circular.
Opposition to the Mandate
The state government’s directive has met with opposition. Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi publicly criticized the move. Azmi stated that making the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ compulsory was inappropriate. He cited concerns about individual beliefs and religious freedom.
Azmi elaborated on his stance, explaining its basis in Islamic principles. He affirmed that Islam places high importance on respecting one’s mother. However, he clarified that Islam does not permit prostrating or bowing down before anyone other than God. This religious perspective forms the core of his objection to the compulsory nature of the song, particularly if it is interpreted as an act of veneration.
Furthermore, Azmi accused unnamed political entities of using such directives for political gain. He claimed that instead of focusing on development, some groups “indulge in Hindu-Muslim (politics) and win (elections).” This suggests a belief that the directive is politically motivated rather than purely educational or commemorative. His statements highlight a division in opinion regarding the song’s mandatory singing.
The government’s circular stands for now, with schools preparing to implement the directive. The week-long program aims to instill a sense of national pride and historical awareness among students. It also brings the national song to the forefront of public discourse, sparking discussions on patriotism, religious freedom, and educational policies.