In A First, President Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day Speech Begins With Vande Matram

Last Updated:August 14, 2026, 8:28 PM IST

President Droupadi Murmu Independence Day Speech: The address began with the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram, followed by the National Anthem.

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation at 7 PM today

President Droupadi Murmu Independence Day Speech: President Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day address on Friday was preceded by the rendition of all six stanzas of Vande Mataram, followed by the National Anthem. The address itself concluded with the rendition of Jana Gana Mana, marking the end of her speech.

This comes days after President Murmu gave her assent to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, giving Vande Mataram the same statutory legal protection as the National Anthem. The law makes intentional disruption or prevention of the singing of the National Song punishable.

The Centre’s updated protocol provides for the complete six-stanza version of Vande Mataram at specified official functions. When the national song and national anthem are performed together, Vande Mataram is to be played first, followed by Jana Gana Mana.

The change comes as India marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, which has a historic association with the country’s freedom movement. The government is holding year-long commemorative programmes to mark the milestone.

Vande Mataram At Independence Day Celebrations

The new protocol is also being reflected in this year’s Independence Day ceremonies. For the first time, Vande Mataram is being included before the National Anthem at the Red Fort ceremony on August 15.

The sequence places the national song at the centre of this year’s Independence Day celebrations, while the national anthem continues to retain its established place in the ceremony.

The development comes against the backdrop of the recent legislation and the government’s year-long commemoration of the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.

Key Questions Answered

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What changes will the new protocol bring to future events?

The new protocol for future events includes the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram being played before the National Anthem at official functions. This change gives Vande Mataram the same legal protection as the National Anthem.

How does this amendment impact the national song’s status?

The amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act places Vande Mataram on an equal legal footing with the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana. This means that intentionally disrupting or disrespecting the national song could become a punishable offence, potentially leading to penalties such as imprisonment or fines.

Will other national events adopt this new sequence?

The new protocol for Vande Mataram, which gives it the same legal protection as the National Anthem, is being reflected in this year’s Independence Day ceremonies. For the first time, Vande Mataram will be included before the National Anthem at the Red Fort ceremony on August 15.

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Anushka Vats

Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can …Read More

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