Why Is the National Anthem Different from Vande Mataram?

🎵 Introduction: Two Songs, One Nation

In India, two songs stir deep patriotism in every citizen’s heart — “Jana Gana Mana” and “Vande Mataram.” One is the national anthem, the other, the national song. But why are they different? Why wasn’t Vande Mataram, the older and once more popular song, chosen as the anthem of independent India?

Let’s explore the truth behind this decision — rooted in history, unity, and symbolism.

 The Origins of Both Songs

Vande Mataram was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the 1870s and later published in his revolutionary novel Anandamath (1882). Composed in Sanskritised Bengali, it became a powerful slogan during the Indian freedom struggle, especially during protests, revolts, and rallies. It was first sung at the 1896 Congress session by Rabindranath Tagore.

Jana Gana Mana, on the other hand, was written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911 and sung publicly for the first time at the Calcutta Congress session the same year. It was composed in highly Sanskritized Bengali and carried a message of unity and devotion to the spirit of India.

Why Jana Gana Mana Was Chosen as the National Anthem

1. Religious Sensitivities Around Vande Mataram

While Vande Mataram was widely respected, it had one major issue — it portrayed India as a Hindu goddess (Durga). Some lines invoked religious symbolism that certain communities, especially Muslims, felt conflicted with their monotheistic beliefs. Several members of the Constituent Assembly expressed concern that such religious overtones could divide rather than unite a diverse, secular India.

2. A Need for Secular Representation

India, as a newly independent secular nation, needed a national anthem that could include every Indian, regardless of religion. Jana Gana Mana, which described the unity of India’s regions and people without religious references, was seen as a better choice for national integration.

3. Musical Structure and Suitability

Jana Gana Mana was more suitable for ceremonial and formal occasions. Its tune could be rendered easily by orchestras, military bands, and large choirs. It lasted about 52 seconds, which also met the global standards for national anthems.

In contrast, Vande Mataram was longer, musically complex, and difficult to sing collectively. While powerful in spirit, it was not as practical for formal state functions.

4. Inclusive Regional Message

Jana Gana Mana speaks of the land — from Punjab to Bengal, Gujarat to the South, and from the Vindhyas to the Himalayas — representing India’s vast geography and unity in diversity. This geographic inclusiveness made it ideal as the anthem for a newly unified nation.

🪔 What Happened to Vande Mataram Then?

Vande Mataram was not discarded. In fact, in 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India declared:

“Jana Gana Mana” as the National Anthem

“Vande Mataram” as the National Song

This decision was made out of respect for the song’s contribution to the freedom struggle. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi had immense reverence for it, even while recognizing the importance of unity over division.

 Did Gandhi Oppose Vande Mataram?

No, Gandhi never opposed it. He called it a “soul-stirring song” and acknowledged its role in inspiring thousands of revolutionaries. However, he also supported the need for harmony between communities, and thus did not insist on it being made the national anthem.

Common Misconceptions

Some people believe that Jana Gana Mana was written in praise of the British King, since it was first sung in 1911 during a visit by King George V. This is false. Rabindranath Tagore himself clarified multiple times that the song was addressed to the divine guiding spirit of India, not any monarch.

Another misconception is that Vande Mataram was rejected outright. In reality, it was deeply respected, but not suitable as a national anthem in a multi-religious, democratic India.

 Conclusion: A Tale of Two Patriotic Hearts

The reason why the national anthem is different from Vande Mataram is not due to disrespect or rejection — but because India chose inclusion, unity, and practicality over sentiment.

While Jana Gana Mana is the voice of national unity, Vande Mataram is the heartbeat of revolution. One is official; the other, eternal.

Both continue to inspire, in their own ways — reminding us that a nation is not just built by laws and borders, but by songs that stir the soul.

📌 FAQs

Q: Can I sing Vande Mataram in schools or public events?

Yes, absolutely. It is widely sung and respected as the national song.

Q: Is it mandatory to sing either song?

No, as per the Supreme Court, no citizen can be forced to sing any song against their conscience. It’s a matter of personal freedom and respect.

Q: Are both songs equally official?

Jana Gana Mana is the national anthem (for official functions). Vande Mataram is the national song (culturally symbolic, not played at formal ceremonies).