The national anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," was first sung on December 27, 1911, during the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress.
It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore in Bengali. At that time, it was not yet designated as the national anthem but was recognized for its inspiring and patriotic essence.
Later, on January 24, 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India formally adopted "Jana Gana Mana" as the national anthem of India.
Here are the detailed events surrounding the first rendition and adoption of "Jana Gana Mana":
First Singing of "Jana Gana Mana"
Date: December 27, 1911
Occasion: Calcutta (now Kolkata) Session of the Indian National Congress
Location: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
Composer: Rabindranath Tagore wrote the song in Bengali as part of a Brahmo hymn in 1911.
Language: Originally written in Sanskritized Bengali under the title "Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata."
The song was performed for the first time by a group of schoolchildren at the session. It was included in the proceedings to inspire and unite Indians during the freedom struggle.
Historical Context
The 1911 session of the Indian National Congress was significant as it marked the announcement of the partition of Bengal being annulled and the shift of India's capital from Calcutta to Delhi by the British government.
The song praised the "Dispenser of India's destiny," which some interpreted as a reference to divine power rather than any individual, avoiding any direct political implications.
Adoption as National Anthem
1. Formal Adoption:
On January 24, 1950, the Indian Constituent Assembly declared "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem of India.
2. Duration:
The anthem consists of the first stanza of Tagore’s original composition. Its playing time is approximately 52 seconds.
3. Significance:
The anthem represents the cultural diversity, unity, and heritage of India. It mentions key regions and peoples of India symbolizing inclusiveness.
Rabindranath Tagore's Role
Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate in literature (1913), was deeply involved in India’s cultural renaissance.
He wrote "Jana Gana Mana" in 1911 and later translated it into English under the title "The Morning Song of India."
Misconceptions
There was a misconception that "Jana Gana Mana" was composed in praise of King George V, who visited India in 1911. However, Tagore himself clarified that it was a hymn to the "Eternal Lord of Destiny" and not dedicated to any human ruler.
Full Original Song
The complete original song comprises five stanzas, though only the first stanza is used as the national anthem.
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