India’s National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, is a symbol of the nation’s unity in diversity and cultural heritage. It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate and a distinguished literary figure. Jana Gana Mana is not only a masterpiece of music and literature but also inspires a profound sense of patriotism among every Indian.
Composition and Context
The original composition of Jana Gana Mana was in Bengali in 1911. It was titled Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata and celebrated the cultural diversity, regions, languages, and communities of India. The song reflects India’s greatness and divine blessings upon its citizens.
Jana Gana Mana, which translates to “Ruler of the Minds of People,” was written and set to music by Rabindranath Tagore on December 11, 1911. The Indian Constituent Assembly officially adopted the first stanza as the National Anthem on January 24, 1950. Singing the full version of the anthem takes approximately 52 seconds, while a shortened version consisting of the first and last lines is sung in just 20 seconds.
History and Background
This anthem was first sung on 27th December 1911 at the annual session of the Indian National Congress held in Calcutta (now Kolkata). On this occasion, it was sung by Rabindranath Tagore’s niece. Tagore originally composed it as Bharato Bhagyo Bidhata, a Brahmo Samaj hymn consisting of five stanzas. Only the first stanza was later adopted as the National Anthem.
The song’s purpose is to express the spirit of India’s “unity in diversity.” It was published by Tagore in the Tattwabodhini Patrika, a Brahmo Samaj journal. The music for the song is based on the raga Alhaiya Bilawal, and Tagore himself composed its tune. It was subsequently presented on various platforms, including the 1917 Congress session and a session in Madanapalle (Andhra Pradesh) in 1919.
1911: The First Public Singing
The Indian National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, was first sung publicly on 27th December 1911 during the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta (now Kolkata). This historic occasion showcased the song as a representation of love and dedication to India.
At that time, India was under British rule, and Jana Gana Mana inspired a sense of freedom and national unity in the hearts of its people. By singing this anthem, Indians expressed their cultural and national identity, which became an essential part of the struggle against colonial rule.
Madanapalle and “The Morning Song of India”
In February 1919, Rabindranath Tagore sang the anthem at the Besant Theosophical College in Madanapalle. Margaret Cousins, the college’s vice-principal and a music expert, transcribed the anthem into Western musical notation to preserve it. During the same event, Tagore translated the song into English under the title “The Morning Song of India.” The song continues to be sung at the Besant Hall in Madanapalle to this day.
Adoption as National Anthem and Role in the Freedom Struggle
In 1942, during his efforts in Germany, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose adopted Jana Gana Mana as the Indian National Anthem. Later, when India achieved independence in 1947, the midnight session of the Constituent Assembly concluded with the singing of Jana Gana Mana.
On 15th August 1947, India gained independence, and on 24th January 1950, Jana Gana Mana was officially declared the National Anthem of India. However, only the first stanza of the original Bengali composition was adopted as the anthem. Its Hindi translation effectively conveys the essence of Indian nationalism and pride.
Significance of the National Anthem
Jana Gana Mana connects every Indian with a sense of pride and respect for the nation. It takes approximately 52 seconds to sing and is performed during formal events, national festivals, and other important occasions.
Lyrics of the Anthem
“Jana Gana Mana Adhinayaka Jaya He,
Bharata Bhagya Vidhata.
Punjab, Sindh, Gujarat, Maratha,
Dravida, Utkala, Banga.
Vindhya, Himachala, Yamuna, Ganga,
Uchchala Jaladhi Taranga.
Tava Shubha Name Jage,
Tava Shubha Ashish Mage.
Gahe Tava Jaya Gatha.
Jana Gana Mangala Dayaka Jaya He,
Bharata Bhagya Vidhata.
Jaya He! Jaya He! Jaya He!
Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya He!”
Meaning and Representation
The anthem includes references to India’s diverse geographical regions, languages, and cultural heritage. It highlights the unity, peace, and progress of India, symbolizing the nation’s rich and harmonious diversity. Through its lyrics, Jana Gana Mana celebrates the greatness of India and inspires patriotism in the hearts of its people.
Controversies and Clarifications
When Jana Gana Mana was first sung in 1911, it sparked controversy, with some alleging that it was written in praise of British Emperor George V. However, Rabindranath Tagore clarified in his letters written in 1937 and 1939 that the song was dedicated to the “Bharat Bhagya Vidhata” (the dispenser of India’s destiny), referring to a divine entity and not any monarch.
Protocol for Singing the Anthem
- To ensure respect for the national anthem, the government has issued specific guidelines.
- The full version of the anthem takes 52 seconds to sing, while the shortened version, which includes the first and last lines, takes only 20 seconds.
- It is mandatory to stand while the anthem is played or sung, as a mark of respect.
Regional and Cultural Aspects
The lyrics mention India’s border states and regions, such as Punjab, Sindh, Gujarat, Maratha, Dravida, Utkala, and Bengal. Critics have pointed out the omission of areas like Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeastern states. Supporters argue that the mentioned regions symbolically represent the entirety of India, including its cultural and geographical diversity.
Modern Times and Legal Aspects
Legal and social issues concerning the anthem have been subjects of discussion. In a 1986 ruling, the Supreme Court of India stated that no one can be compelled to sing the national anthem, but showing respect towards it is mandatory. This ensures that individual rights and national dignity are balanced.
Conclusion
Jana Gana Mana is not merely a song; it is a source of inspiration, national pride, and unity for every Indian. Every word of the anthem resonates with a deep sense of patriotism. Since its first rendition in 1911, the anthem has played a vital role in uniting and inspiring the citizens of the country, reflecting India’s spirit and strength.
Also Read:
- Indian Knowledge and Science Tradition: An Overview
- Indian Constitution: History, Overview and Interesting Facts
