National Anthem of India

The National Anthem of India holds a special place in the hearts of millions, symbolizing unity, patriotism, and our rich cultural diversity. “Jana Gana Mana” is not just a song; it’s a powerful expression of our shared identity as Indians. Join us on a journey to discover the profound history, significance, and emotional depth of India’s National Anthem.

National Anthem of India - Lyrics

Bangali

জনগণমন-অধিনায়ক জয় হে ভারতভাগ্যবিধাতা!
পঞ্জাব সিন্ধু গুজরাট মরাঠা দ্রাবিড় উৎকল বঙ্গ
বিন্ধ্য হিমাচল যমুনা গঙ্গা উচ্ছলজলধিতরঙ্গ
তব শুভ নামে জাগে, তব শুভ আশিষ মাগে,
গাহে তব জয়গাথা।
জনগণমঙ্গলদায়ক জয় হে ভারতভাগ্যবিধাতা!
জয় হে, জয় হে, জয় হে, জয় জয় জয় জয় হে॥

Hindi

जन-गण-मन अधिनायक जय हे, भारत भाग्य विधाता!
पंजाब-सिंध-गुजरात-मराठा, द्राविड़-उत्कल-बंग
विन्ध्य हिमाचल यमुना गंगा, उच्छल जलधि तरंग
तव शुभ नामे जागे, तव शुभाशीष मागे
गाहे तवजय गाथा।
जन-गण-मंगलदायक जय हे, भारत भाग्य विधाता!
जय हे! जय हे! जय हे! जय जय जय जय हे!

English

Thou art the ruler of the minds of all people,
dispenser of India’s destiny.
Thy name rouses the hearts of the Punjab, Sindh, Gujarat and Maratha,
of the Dravida, Orissa and Bengal.
It echoes in the hills of the Vindhyas and Himalayas, mingles in the music of the Yamuna and Ganges
and is chanted by the waves of the Indian Sea.
They pray for thy blessings and sing thy praise.
The saving of all people waits in thy hand,
thou dispenser of India’s destiny.
Victory, Victory, Victory to thee.

National Anthem of India
1. Composition and History
  • The National Anthem of India is called “Jana Gana Mana.”
  • It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911.
  • Tagore wrote the lyrics in Bengali.
  • The song was first sung at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress.
  • It was officially adopted as the National Anthem on January 24, 1950.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” was chosen due to its universal appeal.
  • Rabindranath Tagore won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913.
  • The anthem reflects India’s cultural diversity and unity.
  • It is sung in schools, at official events, and before movies.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” was originally composed with five stanzas.
2. Structure of the Anthem
  • The complete National Anthem has five stanzas.
  • Only the first stanza is usually sung on official occasions.
  • Each stanza is a prayer for well-being and unity.
  • The anthem praises India’s diverse regions and people.
  • The first stanza mentions different Indian states and regions.
  • The Bengali language version has 52 characters.
  • The anthem is set in the raga Alhaiya Bilawal.
  • It has a slow and dignified tempo.
  • The lyrics are both a song and a poem.
  • The anthem reflects Tagore’s love for his country.
3. Multilingual Anthem
  • The National Anthem is sung in Bengali, its original language.
  • It is also officially translated into Hindi.
  • Translations into other Indian languages are available.
  • The Hindi version is used in the southern states.
  • The translations maintain the original melody.
  • The anthem’s lyrics may slightly differ in different languages.
  • All versions share the same essence and meaning.
  • The anthem remains inclusive of India’s linguistic diversity.
  • It symbolizes the country’s unity in diversity.
  • Singing the anthem in schools is a common practice.
4. Significance and Symbolism
  • “Jana Gana Mana” celebrates India’s identity and diversity.
  • It emphasizes the unity of the nation.
  • The anthem’s first stanza honors the diverse regions of India.
  • It seeks the blessings of the Almighty for the country.
  • The song’s imagery reflects India’s natural beauty.
  • The anthem captures the spirit of freedom and unity.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” inspires patriotism and national pride.
  • It has a deep emotional connection for Indians.
  • The anthem is a symbol of India’s struggle for independence.
  • It was sung at historic moments during the freedom movement.
5. Official Usage
  • The National Anthem is played at the beginning of official ceremonies.
  • It is a mandatory part of flag-raising ceremonies.
  • The anthem is played in schools before the start of the day.
  • It is also played in cinemas before movie screenings.
  • On Republic Day and Independence Day, it is sung at grand events.
  • Standing in attention during the anthem is a sign of respect.
  • The anthem’s use is regulated by the Flag Code of India.
  • It’s an important element in national and cultural events.
  • The anthem is often played at sports events too.
  • It’s a source of national pride for all Indians.
6. Controversies and Debates
  • There have been debates over the anthem’s length and language.
  • Some have questioned the choice of Bengali as the original language.
  • The Hindi version has faced criticism in southern India.
  • Certain words and phrases in the anthem have caused disputes.
  • The anthem’s relevance and meaning are sometimes debated.
  • Despite debates, the anthem remains deeply ingrained in Indian culture.
  • Court cases have arisen over its proper rendition.
  • The anthem’s requirement before movies has sparked discussions.
  • Disrespecting the anthem is considered offensive.
  • The Supreme Court of India has issued guidelines on its playing.
7. International Occasions
  • “Jana Gana Mana” is played at international events involving India.
  • It’s performed during state visits and diplomatic functions.
  • The anthem is played at Indian embassies and consulates abroad.
  • It’s a symbol of India’s identity on the global stage.
  • Indian athletes hear the anthem when they win international competitions.
  • The anthem is recognized as a symbol of India’s cultural heritage.
  • It’s an integral part of the Indian identity overseas.
  • Indian communities abroad sing the anthem at cultural events.
  • The anthem fosters a sense of connection to India among expatriates.
  • It’s a reminder of India’s values and unity.
8. Historical Moments
  • The National Anthem has been sung at pivotal moments in India’s history.
  • It was sung during the flag-raising ceremony at the Red Fort on August 15, 1947.
  • The anthem was performed at the first Republic Day parade in 1950.
  • It resonated at the funeral of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” symbolizes the spirit of India’s freedom struggle.
  • It’s associated with the sacrifices of Indian freedom fighters.
  • The anthem continues to inspire generations.
  • It’s a reminder of India’s journey from colonial rule to independence.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” is sung with pride during national celebrations.
  • It unites Indians in commemorating their history.
9. Musical Renditions
  • The anthem is often sung with orchestral accompaniments.
  • Various versions and renditions exist, including instrumental arrangements.
  • Renowned artists and musicians have performed the anthem.
  • It has been adapted in different musical styles.
  • The anthem’s melody is simple and easy to sing.
  • Musicians have added their own interpretations to the anthem.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” has been played on various musical instruments.
  • It has a timeless and captivating melody.
  • The anthem is often sung with great emotion.
  • Different musical renditions evoke different moods and feelings.
10. Global Recognition
  • The National Anthem of India is recognized worldwide.
  • It is known for its melody and lyrics.
  • International audiences appreciate its beauty and significance.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” is taught to Indian diaspora communities.
  • It is featured in academic curricula around the world.
  • The anthem is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage.
  • It’s often mentioned in discussions about India’s national identity.
  • Foreign leaders visiting India hear the anthem during official ceremonies.
  • “Jana Gana Mana” reflects India’s values of unity and diversity.
  • It continues to be a source of pride for all Indians, both at home and abroad.
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