Kerala mandates full rendition of Vande Mataram for Independence Day

The Kerala government has directed that the full rendition of the national song, "Vande Mataram," must be sung during Independence Day celebrations across the state. This order, issued by Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha on August 6, 2026, follows instructions from the Union Ministry of Culture.

The directive marks a reversal of the state's previous position, which maintained that the complete version of the song did not need to be sung during official programs. The mandate coincides with the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign, scheduled from August 9 to 17, and the third phase of the nationwide commemoration of the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram."

This policy shift follows the recent passage of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, by Parliament. The legislation extends criminal protections to "Vande Mataram," similar to those provided to the national anthem, making any obstruction or insult to the song a criminal offense.