The National Anthem of India was written by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. On January 24, 1950, it was proclaimed the Indian National Anthem. It is considered one of India's national symbols. For aspirants of the IAS Exam, knowing the facts about the Indian National Anthem is beneficial.

National Anthem of India

Jana gana mana adhi naayaka jaya hai!

Bhaarat bhaagya vidhaata

Punjab Sindh Gujarat Maraatha,

Dravid Utkala Bangaa.

Vindhya Himachala Yamuna Ganga,

Uchhala jaladhi taranga.

Tava shubh naame jaage,

Tava shubh aashish maage,

Gahe tava jaya-gaatha.

Jana-gana-mangaladayaka jaya hai!

Bharat bhagya vidhata.

Jaya hai! Jaya hai! Jaya hai!

Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya hai!

National Anthem of India- Basic Facts

• Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel Laureate, composed India's National Anthem. He's also the author of Bangladesh's national anthem.
• The National Anthem of India was written in the raga Alhaiya Bilawal, and it is still sung with minor changes to the classical form of the raga.
• In 1911, at a conference of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta, the first version of the 'Jana Gana Mana' was sung.
• The first time 'Jana Gana Mana' was played (not sung) was in Hamburg in 1942.
• On January 24, 1950, the Jana Gana Mana was declared as India's national anthem.
• By regulation, the official version of India's National Anthem should last 52 seconds.
• In 2015, the Governor of Rajasthan ordered that the name 'Adhinayaka' be replaced with the word 'Mangal,' basing his argument on the misconception that Tagore himself debunked in 1939.
• Subhas Chandra Bose had granted permission for a free translation of India's National Anthem from Sanskritized Bengali to a well-known Hindustani form. The variant known as the 'Subh Sukh chain' was designed by Captain Abid Ali of the Indian National Army (INA).

Conclusion

Every Indian has an instinct to rise up the moment they hear the pride-inspiring words of our national song, putting all else behind. The moving tune and powerful lyrics will undoubtedly transport you to the land of patriotism, if only for a few periods. The national anthem emphasizes India's value as a varied country. It symbolizes India's unity under one banner, despite variations in culture, customs, religion, and languages. The hymn has an important role in connecting people and reminding us that we are one under Indian unity.

FAQs

Question. What is the National Anthem of India?

Question. Who wrote the National Anthem of India?

Question. When was the National Anthem of India officially adopted?

Question. What is the significance of the National Anthem?

Question. What are the rules for playing or singing the National Anthem?

MCQs

1. Who composed the music for the National Anthem of India?

A) Lata Mangeshkar

B) Rabindranath Tagore

C) M.S. Subbulakshmi

D) Zakir Hussain

2. When was the National Anthem of India adopted?

A) 15th August 1947

B) 26th January 1950

C) 24th January 1950

D) 15th August 1950

3. What does the National Anthem of India symbolize?

A) National peace

B) Unity and diversity

C) Freedom struggle

D) National economy

4. What is the first line of the National Anthem of India?

A) "Suno Bhai Suno"

B) "Jana Gana Mana Adhinayaka Jaya He"

C) "Vande Mataram"

D) "Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna"

5. Which of the following is the correct protocol when the National Anthem is played?

A) Sit down and clap

B) Stand in attention

C) Remain silent

D) Stand and salute

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the significance of the National Anthem in promoting national unity and pride in India.

Answer: The National Anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and pride. Composed by Rabindranath Tagore, it reflects the rich diversity of India and its collective aspirations. The anthem transcends regional, linguistic, and religious divides, embodying the spirit of unity in diversity that is central to India’s identity. It reminds citizens of their shared heritage and the values of freedom, justice, and equality. By being sung or played at public and official events, the National Anthem fosters a sense of belonging and national pride among the people. It strengthens the emotional bond between the country and its citizens, promoting solidarity and respect for the nation’s democratic principles.

Q2: Explain the importance of the National Anthem in India’s democratic setup and its role in fostering patriotism.

Answer: In India’s democratic setup, the National Anthem plays an integral role in upholding the values of democracy, freedom, and national integrity. It acts as a reminder of the country’s independence movement and the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom. As a symbol of India’s democracy, the National Anthem unites people from various backgrounds, motivating them to work together towards the betterment of the nation. It instills a sense of patriotism and civic responsibility, especially during national events like Independence Day, Republic Day, and other official gatherings. The anthem evokes feelings of pride and respect, reinforcing the importance of collective identity and shared national goals. It is an essential part of India’s political culture, symbolizing the unity of the people and their commitment to the nation’s democratic ideals.

Q3: Analyze the historical context behind the adoption of the National Anthem of India.

Answer: The adoption of the National Anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," on January 24, 1950, was a significant moment in India’s post-independence history. Written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911, the anthem was first sung at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress. It represented the hopes and aspirations of a nation emerging from colonial rule. After India gained independence in 1947, there was a need for a national symbol that would unite the people of a diverse and multi-lingual country. The Constituent Assembly, after much deliberation, formally adopted "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem in 1950. The adoption was not only a recognition of Tagore's literary genius but also a move to foster national integration and pride. It became a means of reaffirming the commitment to freedom and unity, marking a new beginning for a democratic India.

Previous Year Questions on National Anthem

1. UPSC CSE 2020

Question: "Who composed the music for the National Anthem of India?"

Answer: Rabindranath Tagore composed both the lyrics and the music for the National Anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana."

2. UPSC CSE 2019

Question: "Discuss the role of the National Anthem in promoting the values of unity and patriotism in India."

Answer: The National Anthem of India serves as a powerful symbol of unity, representing the diverse cultural and social fabric of the country. It fosters patriotism by reminding citizens of their collective identity and the importance of national unity and integrity.