The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution mandating that the state anthem, ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’, must be sung first at the start of all official functions, educational programs, and public sector events across the state.
The resolution—moved by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay—comes as a direct response to a recent advisory from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs directing states to play the national song, Vande Mataram, prior to state anthems at official programs.
Core Highlights of the Resolution
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Mandatory Protocol: The state song must take precedence at the commencement of ceremonies held by state government departments, public sector undertakings, universities, and educational institutions.
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Bipartisan Support: The motion received unanimous endorsement across party lines, including support from the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, VCK, CPI, and BJP.
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No Secondary Permission Required: Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar confirmed the resolution was adopted by a voice vote and takes immediate effect without requiring further approvals.
Key Context & Legislative Background
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Historical Roots: Sourced from Manonmaniam Sundaranar’s 1891 play Manonmaniam, the invocation was first given opening protocol status in November 1970 and formally recognized as the State Song in December 2021.
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Triggering Event: Friction escalated following a Union Home Ministry directive dated July 9, 2026, which prescribed rendering state songs after Vande Mataram. The controversy peaked when Tamil Thai Vazhthu was pushed to third in sequence during a university convocation ceremony.
Chief Minister’s Remarks
Addressing the Assembly, Chief Minister Vijay asserted that the decision represents a firm stand on preserving Tamil Nadu’s constitutional, linguistic, and cultural identity:
“Tamil is not merely a language; it is our life, pride, and emotion. Giving the first place to ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’ is our fundamental right, and our government will not compromise on Tamil Nadu’s linguistic and cultural rights.”
