Vande Mataram vs Jana Gana Mana key differences amid Fresh Rules explained

Last Updated:February 11, 2026, 11:52 IST

Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana played a powerful role in inspiring national sentiment during the freedom struggle.

On February 11, the Union Home Ministry issued new guidelines for the singing of Vande Mataram. According to the updated instructions, the National Song should be performed before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, at all government programmes and in schools. The advisory also specifies that everyone present must stand at attention while it is being sung.

Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are two songs that hold a special place in the hearts of every Indian. Both were written before Independence and played a powerful role in inspiring national sentiment during the freedom struggle.

Yet, many people remain confused about their status. If Vande Mataram inspired freedom fighters, why is Jana Gana Mana India’s national anthem? To answer this, we need to explore their origins and the journey each song took over time.

Who Is Behind Vande Mataram Song?

Written in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Vande Mataram was part of his novel Anandamath. It was originally composed in Sanskritised Bengali. The song praises the motherland and presents the nation as a divine mother figure. Vande Mataram became a powerful slogan for revolutionaries and protestors during the freedom fight. The phrase “Vande Mataram" was used across rallies and gatherings. It symbolised resistance against British rule. Over time, it was recognised as India’s National Song.

The Story Behind Jana Gana Mana

Jana Gana Mana was composed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911. It was taken from his longer poem Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata. Like Vande Mataram, it was originally written in Bengali. After Independence, in 1950, Jana Gana Mana was officially adopted as India’s National Anthem. Its inclusive tone and structure were the factors which made it suitable for formal occasions.

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