In a significant move to promote state pride and cultural identity, the West Bengal government has issued a directive making the state anthem 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' compulsory in all educational institutions across the state.
New Prayer Protocol for Schools
The Education Department has formally notified that the Bengali anthem must be sung alongside the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' during morning assembly prayers. This decision aims to instill a sense of regional pride while maintaining respect for national symbols.
The circular, addressed to all district inspectors of schools, clearly states that both anthems should be given equal importance during daily school assemblies. This move represents a balancing act between regional identity and national unity.
Implementation Timeline and Guidelines
Educational institutions across West Bengal have been instructed to implement this new protocol immediately. The government has provided specific guidelines:
- Both anthems must be sung during morning assemblies
- Equal respect and dignity should be accorded to both compositions
- All schools must ensure proper implementation without delay
- The directive applies to both government and private institutions
Cultural Significance and Political Context
'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' (Bengal's Soil, Bengal's Water), composed by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, holds deep cultural significance for Bengalis. The anthem celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bengal, making it an ideal representation of state pride.
This decision comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trinamool Congress government to emphasize Bengali cultural identity. The move is seen as part of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's broader cultural nationalism agenda, which has previously included making Rabindra Sangeet compulsory in schools.
The implementation of this directive will affect thousands of educational institutions across the state, potentially impacting millions of students who will now begin their school days with this dual musical tribute to both state and nation.
