Ever since the Supreme Court enforced the new rule to recite the National Anthem before the screening of movies in theatres, I started looking up reasons as to why it is mandatory to recite the Anthem only in the theaters and not elsewhere. While I sat at my table, sipping my cup of coffee, I happened to read about the anthems of different countries along with the Indian National Anthem and it is beautiful to know that every country has a story to tell. Before I start talking about the Indian national anthem and the new rule, I would like to share with you about the significance of the anthems of some of the other countries I found to be interesting.
The “Star Spangled Banner” tells the story of the people who fought for freedom and liberty. The Anthem shows that the country has come quite far from its beginnings. It not only encompasses the struggle but also portrays the sacrifices the Founders made to be where they are today! The Anthem was also sung by Beyonce at the Super Bowl Press Conference and it moved people around the world. The “Star Spangled Banner” is difficult to sing but it surely is impossible to forget!
2)MEXICO
The “Himno Nacional Mexicano” is a poem with a meaning that conveys a strong message to every Mexican to defend its nation and stand by it in the time of need. Calling its citizens as soldiers, the Anthem is so powerful that it ignites your soul when you listen to it.
3) BRAZIL
“Hino Nacional Brasileiro” Brazil is a unique anthem as it does not talk about the freedom of the country but talks about peace, pride and of overriding love for Brazil as a place and its people. You can feel the spirit of the Brazilian land, its extensive forests, the sun that gives a sensation of freedom and the sweet soil of Brazil.
4) SPAIN
“March Real” which means the royal march or march of the grenadiers is one of only four national anthems along with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and San Marino that has no official lyrics. The anthem of Spain has no words but is yet so powerful and majestic and glorifies the people of its land.
5) INDIA
The Anthem of India, our Country, is unique for a reason because it glorifies the God above who protects us in his hands. His name inspires people from every state and his name echoes from the Himalayas, to the Vindhyas; it is chanted by the Rivers Yamuna and Ganga and is heard all the way to the Indian ocean. The Anthem further asks for God’s blessings over us as our Country’s destiny is in His hands.
The significance of our anthem is beautiful in its own way and there are still people who do not know its true meaning. While 9 out 10 students do not know the significance of our anthem and there are schools in India that do not even recite the National Anthem.
Is it because of this reason that the Supreme court decided to pass a rule to recite the “Jana Gana Mana,” before the screening of the movie?
If yes, then why only the theaters and why is it not made mandatory in the universities, colleges, schools and even political meetings?
