Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 25: Akashvani will begin broadcasting the complete six-stanza rendition of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, starting Thursday, the government announced on Wednesday. This marks a notable change from the long-standing tradition of airing only the two-stanza version.

Officials said that alongside the main version, the full composition is being recorded in multiple regional formats to showcase the country’s diverse musical heritage. Traditionally, since Independence, Akashvani stations have started their morning transmission with the signature tune followed by a two-stanza version of Vande Mataram, lasting around 65 seconds.

“In accordance with the Ministry of Home Affairs guideline dated January 28, 2026, all Akashvani stations will broadcast the new six-stanza version from March 26, 2026. The full version runs for 3 minutes 10 seconds,” the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated.

The first rendition set to be aired has been performed by eminent Hindustani classical vocalist Pt. Chandrashekhar Vaze in Raag Des. Officials added that additional versions are being created using region-specific instruments and musical styles, ensuring that stations in different states can reflect local cultural traditions.

Earlier, on February 11, the Centre issued comprehensive guidelines formalizing the official protocol for the performance of Vande Mataram. The directives outline how and when the national song should be rendered at government functions and specify audience conduct, especially in relation to the national anthem.

According to the guidelines, the full six-stanza version, lasting about 3 minutes and 10 seconds, is to be played at major state events such as flag hoisting ceremonies, formal arrivals and departures of the President and Governors, and before or after their official addresses. Importantly, whenever both Vande Mataram and the national anthem are part of a programme, the national song is to be performed first.