Difference Between National Anthem and National Song - Indian Polity UPSC Notes
A patriotic hymn authorised by a country's government to be sung on public or state events is known as a national song. A National Anthem, on the other hand, is a musical composition that defines a country's history, tradition, and hardships, and is sometimes patriotic in nature.This article explains the Difference Between National Anthem and National Song which is important for UPSC Indian Polity Preparation.
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Table of Contents |
Difference Between National Anthem and National Song
| National Anthem | National Song |
|---|---|
| A country's history and culture are reflected in its national anthem. | A National Song will have a strong emotional connection with the people of a country for a variety of reasons. |
| A National Anthem will have a certain pronunciation, music, and timings that must all be followed by anyone singing it. | Depending on the language and other cultural elements, a national song will have numerous versions. |
| The "Jana Gana Mana," created by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911, is India's national anthem. | "Vande Mataram," penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in the 1870s, is the national song. |
| One of the primary duties of an Indian citizen, according to Article 51A of the Constitution, is to respect the national anthem. | The National Song does not have the same constitutional protections as the Constitution of India, and honouring it is not designated as a fundamental duty of an Indian citizen. |
| The Indian Parliament has the authority to make the singing of the National Anthem mandatory on specific occasions, and it has done so in the past. | The National Song is regarded in the same regard as the national anthem, however it is not required to be sung at all times. |
| During the nineteenth century, the practice of publicly adopting patriotic songs as national anthems grew popular. | National Songs that were well-known and sung by the majority of a country's population were occasionally adopted as the national anthem. The "La Marseillaise," composed by Claude Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle in 1792, is an example of this. It was written during the early years of the French Revolution to motivate the populace. |
| Other Relevant Links | |
|---|---|
| National Flag | National Song |
| State Emblem | Code of conduct for National Anthem |
Conclusion
Both the terms "national anthem" and "national song" relate to patriotic songs that describe the country's culture and pride. National anthems are formally adopted by countries, whereas national songs are formally adopted by countries on a case-by-case basis.It's important to note that not every country has both a national anthem and a national song. In countries that do not have a separate national anthem and song, a national anthem is also referred to as a national song.
| Other Relevant Links | |
|---|---|
| Indian Polity UPSC Notes | National Symbols |
| Difference Between Polity and Political Science | Order of Precedence |
FAQs
Q1: What is the National Anthem of India?
Answer: The National Anthem is "Jana Gana Mana", composed by Rabindranath Tagore.
Q2: What is the National Song of India?
Answer: "Vande Mataram", written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, holds the status of the National Song.
Q3: Is there a difference in their official recognition?
Answer: Yes, the National Anthem has official constitutional recognition, whereas the National Song does not but is highly revered.
Q4: When is the National Anthem usually sung?
Answer: It is sung during national events, official functions, and flag hoisting ceremonies.
Q5: How do they reflect national identity?
Answer: Both symbolize India's unity and freedom struggle, with the Anthem used formally and the Song inspiring patriotism.
MCQs
- Who composed the National Anthem of India?
a) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
b) Rabindranath Tagore
c) Sarojini Naidu
d) Aurobindo Ghosh
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
- Which song was adopted as the National Song of India?
a) Sare Jahan Se Achha
b) Jana Gana Mana
c) Vande Mataram
d) Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon
Answer: (C) See the Explanation
- When was Jana Gana Mana adopted as the National Anthem?
a) 1947
b) 1950
c) 1949
d) 1962
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
- What is the theme of Vande Mataram?
a) Social justice
b) National pride and the beauty of India
c) Political freedom
d) International relations
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
- Which language was the original version of Vande Mataram written in?
a) Hindi
b) Sanskrit
c) Bengali
d) Tamil
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
GS Mains Questions and Model Answers
Q1: Discuss the significance of the National Anthem and the National Song in fostering national unity in India.
Answer: The National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and the National Song, Vande Mataram, symbolize India’s unity and cultural heritage. While the Anthem is played at official functions to evoke national pride, the Song carries historical importance from the freedom struggle, inspiring patriotism. Together, they serve as tools of emotional and cultural bonding among citizens, transcending regional and linguistic barriers.
Q2: Evaluate the importance of Vande Mataram during the Indian freedom movement.
Answer: Vande Mataram was a rallying cry during the Indian independence movement, igniting patriotic fervor among revolutionaries and common people alike. It became synonymous with resistance against colonial rule and reflected the sentiment of pride in India's heritage and culture. Though not officially the National Anthem, its historical and emotional significance remains unparalleled.
Q3: Analyze the controversy regarding the adoption of Jana Gana Mana over Vande Mataram as the National Anthem.
Answer: The debate over Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram arose due to differing perceptions. While some argued for Vande Mataram due to its role in the freedom struggle, others felt that its religious undertone might not resonate with all communities. Ultimately, Jana Gana Mana was adopted for its inclusive lyrics and universal appeal, aligning with India’s secular and pluralistic ethos.
Previous Year Questions on Difference Between National Anthem and National Song
1. UPSC CSE 2013
Question: “Discuss the historical significance of Vande Mataram in India’s freedom struggle.”
Answer: Vande Mataram played a crucial role in galvanizing nationalist sentiments during the Indian freedom movement. It was used by leaders to evoke emotional unity and patriotism, inspiring numerous revolutionaries. Its inclusion in public gatherings and protests gave it immense symbolic importance, making it a powerful tool against colonial oppression.
2. UPSC CSE 2016
Question: “Why was Jana Gana Mana chosen as the National Anthem over Vande Mataram?”
Answer: Jana Gana Mana was selected for its secular and all-inclusive lyrics that reflect India’s unity in diversity. Though Vande Mataram had played a pivotal role in the freedom movement, it was considered less suitable as the National Anthem due to its religious undertones, ensuring the Anthem would resonate with all sections of society.
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