Tamil Nadu MPs Seek Governor’s Nod To Change Anthem Order At Official Functions

Twenty-one Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu have written to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, requesting that the state anthem 'Tamizh Thai Vaazhthu' be given priority and sung before other songs during state government and institutional events. The letter comes amid a controversy over the order in which patriotic and state anthems were performed at official programmes, including a recent university convocation ceremony. In their letter dated August 5, the MPs referred to the 33rd convocation ceremony of the state-run Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli held on July 28.

They alleged that following directions from Raj Bhavan, the ceremony began with 'Vande Mataram', followed by the National Anthem, while 'Tamizh Thai Vaazhthu' was performed third. The MPs expressed concern over the sequence, saying it had caused dissatisfaction among sections of people in Tamil Nadu. The representation was signed by several prominent parliamentarians, including former Union minister P Chidambaram, B Manickam Tagore, Karti Chidambaram, Thol Thirumavalavan, Durai Vaiko, and 16 other MPs from the state.

The lawmakers clarified that their letter was not intended as a complaint against the governor but as a respectful request to avoid controversies and ensure that state institutions function with dignity and harmony. In their communication, the MPs said many people in Tamil Nadu viewed the placement of the state anthem after the National Anthem and 'Vande Mataram' as an "unintended slight" to Tamil identity and sentiments. They also referred to Manonmaniam Sundaranar Pillai, the writer of 'Neeraarum Kadaludutha', the song officially recognised as the Tamil Nadu state anthem.

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The MPs argued that the state anthem holds cultural and emotional significance for the people of Tamil Nadu and should be treated with appropriate respect during official programmes. They urged the governor to consider changing the order followed at government and educational events to ensure that the state anthem is not perceived as being given secondary importance. The controversy has emerged as a debate over protocol and symbolism in official functions.

While the National Anthem represents the entire country and holds constitutional importance, states across India also have their own cultural symbols and songs that represent regional identity and heritage.  The MPs' request centres on maintaining a balance between national traditions and state-specific cultural recognition. The Raj Bhavan's reported instructions regarding the order of songs at events have drawn criticism from opposition leaders and political representatives in Tamil Nadu. They have argued that the state anthem should be performed first at state functions, followed by other patriotic songs and the National Anthem according to established conventions.

The issue comes at a time when discussions over language, cultural identity, and federal relations frequently feature in Tamil Nadu's political discourse. The state government and several political parties have historically emphasised the importance of protecting Tamil language and cultural heritage. The governor's office has not yet issued a detailed response to the MPs' letter. The request by the parliamentarians is now expected to be considered by Raj Bhavan as discussions continue over the appropriate protocol for state-level official ceremonies.

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