Karnataka limits Vande Mataram to two stanzas at state functions

Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru. The order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DIPR) follows a decision by the Karnataka Cabinet. | Photo credit: Murali Kumar K

The Karnataka government has issued an order that only the first two stanzas of the national song “Vande Mataram” should be sung at state events. The position is in line with that of the Congress Party at the national level.

However, all the six slokas will be played or sung at functions involving the President, Vice President, Prime Minister or Governor, the order further states. The regulation issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DIPR) follows the government’s decision.

Also Read: Vande Mataram ends after 2 stanzas in Karnataka assembly and council; BJP legislators present the full version

The order recognizes that Vande Mataram played an important role in inculcating nationalism, unity and patriotism among the people of the country during the Indian national freedom movement. It refers to the Centre’s Ministry of Home Affairs regulation which prescribes the singing of the official version of the song as well as the procedure to be followed while singing or playing it in various government and public programmes.

However, the order says that the state government has considered the need to maintain “unity, dignity and appropriate protocol” when it comes to playing or singing Vande Mataram, and considering the nature and context of various government programs and functions of the state, the decision has been taken to present only two stanzas.

Published – 10 Sep 2026 5:30 PM IST