Is It Now Mandatory to Sing 'Banglar Mati Banglar Jal' in Government Schools?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the West Bengal government has mandated that all state schools include the state song in their morning Assemblies. This decision, made in light of the upcoming elections, aims to foster unity and pride among the people of Bengal. Discover the implications of this new policy in our detailed report.
Key Takeaways
- West Bengal mandates state anthem in schools.
- Song aims to enhance regional pride and unity.
- Initiative may influence upcoming elections.
- Anthem written by renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore.
- Other states in India also have anthems.
Kolkata, Nov 6 (NationPress) The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE) has mandated that all state-sponsored and aided schools within the region incorporate the state song 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jal' into their morning Assemblies.
This notable song, penned by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, was officially declared the state anthem in 2023.
A resolution to this effect was adopted in the state Assembly earlier this year.
State Education Minister Bratya Basu confirmed the state government's directive concerning the state song.
In a post on X, Basu stated, "With the approval of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, from this point forward, every government and government-aided school in West Bengal is instructed to perform the renowned song 'Banglar Mati Banglar Jal', composed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1905, as the morning prayer. This will be alongside the regular rendition of the national anthem of India, 'Jana Gana Mana Adhinayak Jai Hai'. We strongly believe that singing this state anthem will serve as a unique catalyst for fostering social and communal unity throughout the state."
In light of this development, many speculate that this initiative to sing the state anthem is aimed at rekindling Bengali pride ahead of the forthcoming state Assembly elections.
Numerous states across India have their own state anthems.
For a long time, West Bengal was without such a song.
The first state anthem, 'Vande Utkal Janani', was adopted in Odisha in 1936.
'Maa Telugu Thaliki' was recognized as the state anthem in Andhra Pradesh in 1956.
States like Assam, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana have also adopted state anthems.
Point of View
The recent directive by the West Bengal government reflects a strategic move to unite communities and evoke regional pride ahead of elections. Such initiatives often serve to strengthen ties within diverse populations, fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Banglar Mati Banglar Jal'?
It is the state anthem of West Bengal, written by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.
Why was this decision made?
The decision aims to promote social and communal unity and awaken regional sentiments ahead of upcoming elections.
When was this song adopted as the state anthem?
The song was officially designated as the state anthem in 2023.
Are there other states with anthems?
Yes, many states in India, such as Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, have their own state anthems.
What is the historical significance of this song?
Written in 1905, it reflects Bengali culture and identity and has been a symbol of pride for the people.
