Akashvani will begin broadcasting the full six-stanza version of the national song Vande Mataram from March 26, marking a significant shift from its long-standing practice of airing only the two-stanza rendition.
Since Independence, Akashvani stations have traditionally opened their morning broadcasts with the signature tune followed by a shortened 65-second version of Vande Mataram. However, in line with recent guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on January 28, 2026, all stations will now air the complete version of the song, which runs for approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds.
The first full-length rendition to be broadcast has been recorded by noted classical vocalist Chandrashekhar Vaze in Raag Des.
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said that multiple versions of the national song are also being recorded to reflect India’s rich musical diversity. These renditions will incorporate regional instruments and styles, and will be aired by Akashvani stations across different states.
