Song of India: A Study of the National Anthem

The rousing chords and stirring message of ‘Jana Gana Mana’ are familiar to every Indian citizen. The song defines with clarity India’s most cherished values. Composed by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore it celebrates the unity in our diverse and plural society praises the beauty of our mountains rivers and seas and honours our civilizational values. In this insightful study scholar and historian Rudrangshu Mukherjee traces its origins (showing us what its creator had in mind when he composed the song) explains how and why it was chosen over other contenders examines the occasional controversies that have surrounded it and reminds us about the truths that underlie it. The national anthem is visionary. It recognizes and salutes everything that is brave noble and unique about our country. It also contains within it a promise and a pledge to uphold our lofty ideals and traditions. Citizens and especially our elected representatives should understand that every time they stand up in respect when ‘Jana Gana Mana’ is played or sung it is their responsibility to fulfil the promise and honour the pledge.