Zealots appear to have overlooked human nature: Tharoor slams Govt's Vande Mataram move
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has criticized the Indian government's new mandate requiring the full singing of the National Song, 'Vande Mataram,' at official functions. Tharoor argues that the extended duration of the song, combined with other national anthems, creates an impractical burden on audiences and may ultimately diminish respect for the song.
Why it matters
The legislation highlights ongoing tensions regarding the intersection of nationalism, state-mandated patriotism, and practical governance in India.
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday (August 11, 2026) slammed the Centre for making it mandatory to sing the National Song in full, in addition to the National Anthem, at the start and ending of any official function, and said the intent of the amended law to promote greater respect for Vande Mataram may not be achieved.
Mr. Tharoor noted that President Droupadi Murmu has assented to the Vande Mataram amendment , passed without discussion in Parliament, which requires the singing of the National Song in full at the start and ending of any official function, in addition to the National Anthem.
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