Shashi Tharoor Sparks Debate on 'Vande Mataram' Recitation Length

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has ignited a debate regarding the required length of the national song 'Vande Mataram' at official events. With Independence Day approaching, where the song is set to be recited from the Red Fort, Tharoor questioned the practicality of a mandatory rendition exceeding three minutes.

What Happened

Tharoor noted that a recent amendment, which mandates the full singing of 'Vande Mataram' at the start and end of official functions in addition to the national anthem, was passed without parliamentary discussion. He contrasted this with the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana,' which lasts approximately 52 seconds. Tharoor suggested that the extended duration of 'Vande Mataram' might conflict with human nature and questioned whether respect and patience could be legislated.

He also pointed out the additional time required if a state song is also sung, as decided in Tamil Nadu. Tharoor expressed concern that the amendment, intended to promote respect, might achieve the opposite.

Key Facts

• Congress MP Shashi Tharoor questioned the mandatory full recitation of 'Vande Mataram'.
• The full rendition of 'Vande Mataram' is over 3 minutes and 10 seconds long.
• 'Jana Gana Mana' requires approximately 52 seconds of attention.
• An amendment passed without parliamentary discussion requires the singing of 'Vande Mataram' in full at official functions.
• This is in addition to the recitation of the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'.
• In Tamil Nadu, both national songs will be preceded by the State Song in Tamil for an additional 2 minutes.
• BJP national spokesperson C R Kesavan criticized Tharoor's comments as "callous."
• Kesavan referred to past correspondence between Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee regarding the national anthem.
• The BJP stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured 'Vande Mataram' is rendered in its original form at public events, including for the first time at the Red Fort on Independence Day.

Background

The debate touched upon historical discussions regarding the national anthem. BJP spokesperson C R Kesavan referenced correspondence between Jawaharlal Nehru and Jana Sangh founder Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Kesavan stated that Nehru favored 'Jana Gana Mana' as the national anthem, describing it as having an "element of triumph and fulfilment," while 'Vande Mataram' "represents poignant longing for freedom." Kesavan also accused the Congress of having a historical "antipathy" towards 'Vande Mataram'.