June 28, 2026

December 2025

‘Conspiracy to remove Gandhi’s name’: Congress announces nationwide protest on G Ram G Act; claims PMO took unilateral decision

‘Conspiracy to remove Gandhi’s name’: Congress announces nationwide protest on G Ram G Act; claims PMO took unilateral decision

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Congress on Saturday announced that it will launch a nation-wide protest against the Centre for replacing rural employment scheme – MGNREGA – with VB G-RAM-G law. After the Congress Working Committee meet, party chief Mallikarjun Kharge said that replacing the scheme named after Mahatama Gandhi is insult to the father of the nation….

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Pictured shared by Digvijaya Singh NEW DELHI: Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Saturday created a stir by praising the organisational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh — a group the Congress has long opposed ideologically. Sharing a black-and-white photograph from a social media platform that showed Narendra Modi seated on the ground while BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani sat on a chair in the background, Singh acknowledged how the RSS shapes leadership within the organisation.He pointed to the image as an example of how a grassroots worker from the RSS and Jan Sangh rose to become prime minister of the country.Posting the picture on X, the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister wrote, “I found this image on the Quora site. It’s very impressive. How an RSS grassroots swayamsevak and Jan Sangh @BJP4India worker sat on the floor at the feet of leaders and became the state’s Chief Minister and the country’s Prime Minister. This is the power of the organisation.”But later in the day, he issued a clarification, saying, “I support the organisation. I am against the RSS and Modi ji… You have misunderstood… I have praised ‘sangathan’. I was, am, and will remain a staunch opponent of the RSS and Modi… Is it a bad thing to strengthen and praise the organisation?…”Earlier this week, Singh had also praised Rahul Gandhi for his stance on socio-economic issues, giving him “full marks” while calling for internal reforms within the Congress. Drawing a parallel with Rahul Gandhi’s push for Election Commission reforms, Singh argued that the party itself needed similar changes.In another post on X, he wrote, “Rahul ji you are absolutely ‘Bang On’ in matters of Socio-Economic Issues. Full Marks. But now please look at Congress also. Like Election Commission needs Reforms, So Does Indian National Congress. You have started with ‘संघटन सृजन’ But we need more Pragmatic Decentralised Functioning.”He added, “I am sure you would do it because I know you can do it. Only problem is that it is not easy to ‘Convince’ you!!”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesTravelling Europe on a budget? Start with these 9 countriesRanveer Singh-Sara Arjun to Ahaan Panday-Aneet Padda: Bollywood pairings that won hearts in 2025Faster Journeys for Long-Distance Rail Passengers: South Western Railway to Speed Up 123 Trains from January 2026If it’s a bestseller, you must read it: 6 common myths about reading every parent should warn their child aboutYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? Potential benefits explained7 things you should not punish your child for even if you think it is good for them123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingAmrit MondalGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingFrank Lampard and Christine Lampard Net WorthJordan Spieth Net WorthRicky Tiedemann InjuryBode Miller Net WorthTravis KelceAnthony JoshuaPatrick MahomesRaghav ChadhaLaMelo BallMax Verstappen Girlfriend

Pictured shared by Digvijaya Singh NEW DELHI: Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Saturday created a stir by praising the organisational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh — a group the Congress has long opposed ideologically. Sharing a black-and-white photograph from a social media platform that showed Narendra Modi seated on the ground while BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani sat on a chair in the background, Singh acknowledged how the RSS shapes leadership within the organisation.He pointed to the image as an example of how a grassroots worker from the RSS and Jan Sangh rose to become prime minister of the country.Posting the picture on X, the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister wrote, “I found this image on the Quora site. It’s very impressive. How an RSS grassroots swayamsevak and Jan Sangh @BJP4India worker sat on the floor at the feet of leaders and became the state’s Chief Minister and the country’s Prime Minister. This is the power of the organisation.”But later in the day, he issued a clarification, saying, “I support the organisation. I am against the RSS and Modi ji… You have misunderstood… I have praised ‘sangathan’. I was, am, and will remain a staunch opponent of the RSS and Modi… Is it a bad thing to strengthen and praise the organisation?…”Earlier this week, Singh had also praised Rahul Gandhi for his stance on socio-economic issues, giving him “full marks” while calling for internal reforms within the Congress. Drawing a parallel with Rahul Gandhi’s push for Election Commission reforms, Singh argued that the party itself needed similar changes.In another post on X, he wrote, “Rahul ji you are absolutely ‘Bang On’ in matters of Socio-Economic Issues. Full Marks. But now please look at Congress also. Like Election Commission needs Reforms, So Does Indian National Congress. You have started with ‘संघटन सृजन’ But we need more Pragmatic Decentralised Functioning.”He added, “I am sure you would do it because I know you can do it. Only problem is that it is not easy to ‘Convince’ you!!”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesTravelling Europe on a budget? Start with these 9 countriesRanveer Singh-Sara Arjun to Ahaan Panday-Aneet Padda: Bollywood pairings that won hearts in 2025Faster Journeys for Long-Distance Rail Passengers: South Western Railway to Speed Up 123 Trains from January 2026If it’s a bestseller, you must read it: 6 common myths about reading every parent should warn their child aboutYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? Potential benefits explained7 things you should not punish your child for even if you think it is good for them123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingAmrit MondalGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingFrank Lampard and Christine Lampard Net WorthJordan Spieth Net WorthRicky Tiedemann InjuryBode Miller Net WorthTravis KelceAnthony JoshuaPatrick MahomesRaghav ChadhaLaMelo BallMax Verstappen Girlfriend

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Pictured shared by Digvijaya Singh NEW DELHI: Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Saturday created a stir by praising the organisational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh — a group the Congress has long opposed ideologically. Sharing a black-and-white photograph from a social media platform that showed Narendra Modi seated on the ground while BJP veteran…

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‘Grateful forever’: Spinner who got Virat Kohli’s wicket shares emotional post, receives signed ball | Cricket News

‘Grateful forever’: Spinner who got Virat Kohli’s wicket shares emotional post, receives signed ball | Cricket News

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Virat Kohli and Vishal Jayswal (Insta) Virat Kohli looked set for another dominant outing while turning out for Delhi in their second Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Gujarat on Friday at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. From the moment he walked out to bat, Kohli was in full flow, playing with authority and attacking…

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Problems with online refunds? NCH helps citizens recover Rs 45 crore since April; e-commerce complaints top list

Problems with online refunds? NCH helps citizens recover Rs 45 crore since April; e-commerce complaints top list

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

When five scheduled pickup requests were cancelled without explanation, Ramesh Kumar (name changed) approached the National Consumer Helpline. Months after ordering the furniture online, Kumar, the Jodhpur resident was still stuck with defective goods and no refund. Then his call to 1915, changed everything. Within days, government’s National Consumer Helpline stepped in and secured his…

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Russia barrage: Ukraine faces massive power loss; over 2,600 houses without heat in sub-zero cold

Russia barrage: Ukraine faces massive power loss; over 2,600 houses without heat in sub-zero cold

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Russia’s barrage on Kyiv has resulted in massive power loss for the capital, leaving over 2,600 residential buildings without electricity in these chilling winters, leaving hundreds of thousands of people without proper heat. The temperature in the Ukrainian capital has been hovering around zero degrees Celsius.Kyiv’s mayor, Vitaliy Klitschko, updated on the situation of the…

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Visuals from viral video (Video credits/X@RoshanKrRaii) NEW DELHI: A political row broke out in Chhattisgarh after a video went viral showing Bageshwar Dham head Dhirendra Shastri arriving on a government aircraft. The clip also shows a uniformed police officer touching the preacher’s feet.Chhattisgarh Congress communication department head Sushil Anand Shukla on Saturday alleged that arranging a government aircraft for Shastri amounted to “wastage of public money” and “misuse of the state exchequer.”The clip, widely circulated on social media, shows Shastri alighting from the aircraft along with state minister Guru Khushwant Saheb at Raipur airport. In the video, an on-duty police officer is seen first saluting the minister and then removing his cap and shoes before touching Shastri’s feet. Shastri had arrived in the state to attend a religious discourse in Bhilai town of Durg district.Shukla questioned under what constitutional provision the aircraft was made available to the preacher and demanded an official clarification. He claimed that Shastri was neither a recognised religious head nor a peethadhishwar of any established shrine or ashram and accused him of acting “against the country’s composite culture.”The Congress leader further alleged that Shastri promotes social discord, which he said runs contrary to the inclusive values of Sanatan Dharma. Referring to Lord Hanuman, Shukla said that Hanuman symbolises love, tolerance, bravery and forgiveness and those invoking his name should embody these values. “Superstition and hypocrisy cannot survive for long,” he added.The incident also sparked debate online, with several users criticising the alleged use of a government aircraft for a religious figure at taxpayers’ expense and calling the police officer’s gesture a “mockery of uniform ethics.” Others defended the officer, arguing that he followed official protocol by saluting the minister and later expressed personal faith.Responding to the criticism, the BJP defended both the officer and the government. State BJP chief spokesperson and MP Santosh Pandey said there should be no objection to a police officer offering obeisance to a religious guru out of personal belief.“Don’t (Muslim) railway employees and airport staff offer namaz at railway stations and airports? Why does it upset the Congress when a police officer bows to a guru out of personal faith?” he asked.On the use of the state aircraft, Pandey countered by asking the Congress to explain instances during its own tenure when government helicopters and planes were allegedly used by religious figures. He accused the Congress of being “against Sanatan Dharma,” citing remarks by opposition leaders that he said were derogatory to the faith.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesIf it’s a bestseller, you must read it: 6 common myths about reading every parent should warn their child aboutYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? Potential benefits explained7 things you should not punish your child for even if you think it is good for them5 times Sara Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s bond felt real, warm, and unfiltered18 best things to do on New Year’s Eve to ring in 20265 rock-cut temples beyond Ajanta & Ellora123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingAmrit MondalGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingFrank Lampard and Christine Lampard Net WorthJordan Spieth Net WorthRicky Tiedemann InjuryBode Miller Net WorthTravis KelceAnthony JoshuaPatrick MahomesRaghav ChadhaLaMelo BallMax Verstappen Girlfriend

Visuals from viral video (Video credits/X@RoshanKrRaii) NEW DELHI: A political row broke out in Chhattisgarh after a video went viral showing Bageshwar Dham head Dhirendra Shastri arriving on a government aircraft. The clip also shows a uniformed police officer touching the preacher’s feet.Chhattisgarh Congress communication department head Sushil Anand Shukla on Saturday alleged that arranging a government aircraft for Shastri amounted to “wastage of public money” and “misuse of the state exchequer.”The clip, widely circulated on social media, shows Shastri alighting from the aircraft along with state minister Guru Khushwant Saheb at Raipur airport. In the video, an on-duty police officer is seen first saluting the minister and then removing his cap and shoes before touching Shastri’s feet. Shastri had arrived in the state to attend a religious discourse in Bhilai town of Durg district.Shukla questioned under what constitutional provision the aircraft was made available to the preacher and demanded an official clarification. He claimed that Shastri was neither a recognised religious head nor a peethadhishwar of any established shrine or ashram and accused him of acting “against the country’s composite culture.”The Congress leader further alleged that Shastri promotes social discord, which he said runs contrary to the inclusive values of Sanatan Dharma. Referring to Lord Hanuman, Shukla said that Hanuman symbolises love, tolerance, bravery and forgiveness and those invoking his name should embody these values. “Superstition and hypocrisy cannot survive for long,” he added.The incident also sparked debate online, with several users criticising the alleged use of a government aircraft for a religious figure at taxpayers’ expense and calling the police officer’s gesture a “mockery of uniform ethics.” Others defended the officer, arguing that he followed official protocol by saluting the minister and later expressed personal faith.Responding to the criticism, the BJP defended both the officer and the government. State BJP chief spokesperson and MP Santosh Pandey said there should be no objection to a police officer offering obeisance to a religious guru out of personal belief.“Don’t (Muslim) railway employees and airport staff offer namaz at railway stations and airports? Why does it upset the Congress when a police officer bows to a guru out of personal faith?” he asked.On the use of the state aircraft, Pandey countered by asking the Congress to explain instances during its own tenure when government helicopters and planes were allegedly used by religious figures. He accused the Congress of being “against Sanatan Dharma,” citing remarks by opposition leaders that he said were derogatory to the faith.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesIf it’s a bestseller, you must read it: 6 common myths about reading every parent should warn their child aboutYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? Potential benefits explained7 things you should not punish your child for even if you think it is good for them5 times Sara Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s bond felt real, warm, and unfiltered18 best things to do on New Year’s Eve to ring in 20265 rock-cut temples beyond Ajanta & Ellora123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingAmrit MondalGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingFrank Lampard and Christine Lampard Net WorthJordan Spieth Net WorthRicky Tiedemann InjuryBode Miller Net WorthTravis KelceAnthony JoshuaPatrick MahomesRaghav ChadhaLaMelo BallMax Verstappen Girlfriend

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Visuals from viral video (Video credits/X@RoshanKrRaii) NEW DELHI: A political row broke out in Chhattisgarh after a video went viral showing Bageshwar Dham head Dhirendra Shastri arriving on a government aircraft. The clip also shows a uniformed police officer touching the preacher’s feet.Chhattisgarh Congress communication department head Sushil Anand Shukla on Saturday alleged that arranging…

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‘Dhurandhar’ box office collection day 23 Vs ‘Tu Meri Main Tera’ day 3 (LIVE): The Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna film continues to dominate over Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday’s romcom, after crossing Rs 650 crore

‘Dhurandhar’ box office collection day 23 Vs ‘Tu Meri Main Tera’ day 3 (LIVE): The Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna film continues to dominate over Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday’s romcom, after crossing Rs 650 crore

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

‘Dhurandhar’ which has now entered its fourth week is still reigning at the box office, despite other new releases like ‘Avatar Fire And Ash’ and this week’s release, ‘Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri’. This Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday starrer romcom unfortunately did not even get enough screens due to ‘Dhurandhar’ and the…

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‘We are not into bulldozers’: DK Shivakumar hits back at Kerala CM over Bengaluru demolition drive | Bengaluru News

‘We are not into bulldozers’: DK Shivakumar hits back at Kerala CM over Bengaluru demolition drive | Bengaluru News

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

DK Shivakumar hits back at Kerala CM over Bengaluru demolition drive BENGALURU: Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar has hit back at Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over his criticism of a recent demolition drive in Bengaluru, saying senior leaders should refrain from commenting without understanding facts on the ground. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru…

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‘Longest in world’: China unveils 22km expressway tunnel in Xinjiang – watch video

‘Longest in world’: China unveils 22km expressway tunnel in Xinjiang – watch video

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

China on Friday opened a 22.13-kilometre-long expressway tunnel in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which it said is the world’s longest of its kind, significantly reducing travel time across the rugged Tianshan mountain range.The Tianshan Shengli tunnel, which runs beneath the central Tianshan mountains in northwest China, has shortened what was previously a difficult mountain…

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Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Jana Gana Mana’ was publicly sung for first time on December 27, 1911 December 27, 1911– the day a song first heard at a Congress session in Calcutta began a chapter that would culminate in becoming India’s National Anthem, and become a shared national voice.Composed by Rabindranath Tagore, originally in Bangla, the hymn would, nearly four decades later, be adopted as the National Anthem of India. At the time of first rendition, it was introduced simply as a patriotic composition at a gathering of a political organisation that was still shaping its role in India’s anti-colonial movement.The Calcutta Session of 1911The 1911 Congress session was held at the Bharat Sabha, a single-storeyed structure on Bowbazar Street in Calcutta, in presence of then-Congress president, a senior moderate leader Bishan Narayan Dhar. Other prominent figures there were Ambika Charan Mazumder and Bhupendra Nath Bose.At this point in its history, the Indian National Congress was not a political party in the modern electoral sense but a national organisation bringing together leaders, intellectuals, professionals, and activists seeking constitutional reforms and, increasingly, self-government. Its annual sessions were platforms for political resolutions as well as cultural expressions aligned with emerging nationalist sentiment. The first performanceJana Gana Mana was sung before the assembled delegates 114 years ago, which was the 2nd day of the Calcutta session. The performance was led by Tagore’s niece Sarala Devi Chowdhurani, along with a group of students. Contemporary Congress records referred to the composition as “Janaganamana Adhinayaka”, describing it as a patriotic song.The lyrics were written in highly Sanskritised Bengali, employing a register familiar to audiences associated with the Brahmo Samaj and the emerging Bengali intelligentsia. The song addressed “Bharata Bhagya Vidhata”, a phrase referring to the guiding force or destiny of India.The political context of 1911The Congress session came on the heels of the Delhi Durbar of December 1911, held to mark the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary as Emperor and Empress of India. It was also at the backdrop for the announcement made by the British Government about the nullification of the division of Bengal and moving the Imperial Capital from Calcutta to Delhi.While Jana Gana Mana was being performed in this politically fraught atmosphere, there are some newspaper accounts of that time that suggested that it was meant to serve as a welcome or tribute to the British monarch.Tagore’s clarificationRabindranath Tagore did not immediately respond publicly to these claims. However, in later years, he explicitly rejected the suggestion that the song praised George V. In a letter written in 1937, Tagore recalled refusing a request from an acquaintance to compose a song in honour of the British king, describing his reaction as one of “amazement mingled with anger.”In a more forceful letter written in 1939, Tagore stated that he found it insulting to suggest that he would write in praise of a temporal ruler. He clarified that the “Adhinayaka” of Jana Gana Mana referred to a timeless guiding spirit of the Indian people, not a colonial sovereign. These letters have since been cited in official and scholarly accounts addressing the controversy.”I should only insult myself if I cared to answer those who consider me capable of such unbounded stupidity as to sing in praise of George the Fourth or George the Fifth as the Eternal Charioteer leading the pilgrims on their journeys through countless ages of the timeless history of mankind,” he had said.Publication as Bharata VidhataWithin a month of its first performance, the song was published in January 1912 in Tattvabodhini Patrika, the journal of the Brahmo Samaj. The journal was edited by Tagore himself. In print, the song appeared under the title “Bharata Vidhata” and was classified as Brahmo Sangeet.At the time of publication, the composition consisted of five stanzas. Each verse invoked different aspects of India’s geography, people, and collective experience. The published text confirmed that the song was conceived as a hymn rather than a political chant.Subsequent early performancesOn January 25, 1912, less than a month after its Congress debut, Jana Gana Mana was performed again at a public gathering in Calcutta celebrating the Hindu month of Magh. This performance took place under Tagore’s direct guidance.Over the following years, the song circulated primarily within cultural and nationalist circles, without any official political status. It coexisted with other patriotic compositions, most notably Vande Mataram, which had already acquired widespread popularity during the Swadeshi movement.English translationIn 1919, Tagore journeyed to southern India and stayed at the Theosophical College in Madanapalle in what is now the state of Andhra Pradesh. It was here that he made a translation of “Jana Gana Mana” in English in his own handwriting. He titled it “The Morning Song of India.”This translation was not meant for replacement of the original text written in Bengali language, but to introduce its meaning in other languages. The handwritten manuscript has since been preserved and reproduced in various archives. An English translation of Jana Gana Mana by Rabindranath Tagore (Image credit: Nobel Prize handle on X)The song during the freedom struggleDuring the 1920s and 1930s, Jana Gana Mana continued to be performed at cultural gatherings, though it did not displace Vande Mataram as the most widely recognised nationalist song. Both compositions occupied distinct places within the freedom movement’s symbolic repertoire.The song acquired additional political resonance during World War II, when it was adopted by Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA) as one of its anthems. It was sung by INA units in Southeast Asia and later by INA members in Japan. This further mainstreamed the song’s association with anti-colonial resistance.1947: International exposureJawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, reported in a letter that the performance of “Jana Gana Mana” received positive reviews, with delegations of different countries requesting a copy of its sheet music.However, at that point, India had not yet adopted a national anthem, and no official choice had been considered either.Debate in the Constituent AssemblyAfter Independence, the newly established government faced the question of choosing a national anthem. The decision was essentially one of constitutional and symbolic significance. Thus, the matter was therefore referred for consideration before the Constituent Assembly.Both Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram were considered. While Vande Mataram had played a central role in the freedom struggle, there were some apprehensions about its suitability for performance at international events as well as about its musical adaptability.The matter was raised in Parliament by Prime Minister Nehru on August 25, 1948. He said, “It was thought by some people that the “Vande Mataram” tune with all its very great attraction and historical background was not easily suitable for being played by orchestras in foreign countries, and there was not enough movement in it. It seemed, therefore, that while Vande Mataram should continue to be the national song par excellence in India, the National Anthem tune should be that of Jana-Gana-Mana.”Adoption as the National AnthemOn January 24, 1950, two days before India became a republic, Dr Rajendra Prasad, President of the Constituent Assembly, formally announced the adoption of Jana Gana Mana (hindi version) as the National Anthem of India. The announcement specified that, “The composition consisting of the words and music known as Jana Gana Mana is the National Anthem of India, subject to such alterations in the words as the Government may authorise as occasion arises; and the song Vande Mataram, which has played a historic part in the struggle for Indian freedom, shall be honoured equally with Jana Gana Mana and shall have equal status with it. I hope this will satisfy the Members.”Only the first stanza of Tagore’s original five-verse composition was adopted. The officially recognised version has a playing time of approximately 52 seconds.Aftermath and legacyRabindranath Tagore did not live to witness the acceptance of his composition as the national anthem. He passed away in August 1941, almost nine years before the Constituent Assembly took its decision.Notably, Tagore is the only person in world history to have penned two national anthems. His song “Amar Sonar Bangla” was Constitutionally adopted as the national anthem of Bangladesh in 1972.With time, the final four verses of ‘Jana Gana Mana’ gradually phased-out. Although, the anthem has been performed in its entirety on special occasions. The musical composition of the national anthem of India was standardized to accommodate orchestral performances during official or international gatherings.From its initial performance in a small auditorium at Calcutta way back in 1911 to its eventual adoption as a national anthem in 1950, Jana Gana Mana followed a long and documented journey shaped by political change, cultural debate, and constitutional process.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? 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Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Jana Gana Mana’ was publicly sung for first time on December 27, 1911 December 27, 1911– the day a song first heard at a Congress session in Calcutta began a chapter that would culminate in becoming India’s National Anthem, and become a shared national voice.Composed by Rabindranath Tagore, originally in Bangla, the hymn would, nearly four decades later, be adopted as the National Anthem of India. At the time of first rendition, it was introduced simply as a patriotic composition at a gathering of a political organisation that was still shaping its role in India’s anti-colonial movement.The Calcutta Session of 1911The 1911 Congress session was held at the Bharat Sabha, a single-storeyed structure on Bowbazar Street in Calcutta, in presence of then-Congress president, a senior moderate leader Bishan Narayan Dhar. Other prominent figures there were Ambika Charan Mazumder and Bhupendra Nath Bose.At this point in its history, the Indian National Congress was not a political party in the modern electoral sense but a national organisation bringing together leaders, intellectuals, professionals, and activists seeking constitutional reforms and, increasingly, self-government. Its annual sessions were platforms for political resolutions as well as cultural expressions aligned with emerging nationalist sentiment. The first performanceJana Gana Mana was sung before the assembled delegates 114 years ago, which was the 2nd day of the Calcutta session. The performance was led by Tagore’s niece Sarala Devi Chowdhurani, along with a group of students. Contemporary Congress records referred to the composition as “Janaganamana Adhinayaka”, describing it as a patriotic song.The lyrics were written in highly Sanskritised Bengali, employing a register familiar to audiences associated with the Brahmo Samaj and the emerging Bengali intelligentsia. The song addressed “Bharata Bhagya Vidhata”, a phrase referring to the guiding force or destiny of India.The political context of 1911The Congress session came on the heels of the Delhi Durbar of December 1911, held to mark the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary as Emperor and Empress of India. It was also at the backdrop for the announcement made by the British Government about the nullification of the division of Bengal and moving the Imperial Capital from Calcutta to Delhi.While Jana Gana Mana was being performed in this politically fraught atmosphere, there are some newspaper accounts of that time that suggested that it was meant to serve as a welcome or tribute to the British monarch.Tagore’s clarificationRabindranath Tagore did not immediately respond publicly to these claims. However, in later years, he explicitly rejected the suggestion that the song praised George V. In a letter written in 1937, Tagore recalled refusing a request from an acquaintance to compose a song in honour of the British king, describing his reaction as one of “amazement mingled with anger.”In a more forceful letter written in 1939, Tagore stated that he found it insulting to suggest that he would write in praise of a temporal ruler. He clarified that the “Adhinayaka” of Jana Gana Mana referred to a timeless guiding spirit of the Indian people, not a colonial sovereign. These letters have since been cited in official and scholarly accounts addressing the controversy.”I should only insult myself if I cared to answer those who consider me capable of such unbounded stupidity as to sing in praise of George the Fourth or George the Fifth as the Eternal Charioteer leading the pilgrims on their journeys through countless ages of the timeless history of mankind,” he had said.Publication as Bharata VidhataWithin a month of its first performance, the song was published in January 1912 in Tattvabodhini Patrika, the journal of the Brahmo Samaj. The journal was edited by Tagore himself. In print, the song appeared under the title “Bharata Vidhata” and was classified as Brahmo Sangeet.At the time of publication, the composition consisted of five stanzas. Each verse invoked different aspects of India’s geography, people, and collective experience. The published text confirmed that the song was conceived as a hymn rather than a political chant.Subsequent early performancesOn January 25, 1912, less than a month after its Congress debut, Jana Gana Mana was performed again at a public gathering in Calcutta celebrating the Hindu month of Magh. This performance took place under Tagore’s direct guidance.Over the following years, the song circulated primarily within cultural and nationalist circles, without any official political status. It coexisted with other patriotic compositions, most notably Vande Mataram, which had already acquired widespread popularity during the Swadeshi movement.English translationIn 1919, Tagore journeyed to southern India and stayed at the Theosophical College in Madanapalle in what is now the state of Andhra Pradesh. It was here that he made a translation of “Jana Gana Mana” in English in his own handwriting. He titled it “The Morning Song of India.”This translation was not meant for replacement of the original text written in Bengali language, but to introduce its meaning in other languages. The handwritten manuscript has since been preserved and reproduced in various archives. An English translation of Jana Gana Mana by Rabindranath Tagore (Image credit: Nobel Prize handle on X)The song during the freedom struggleDuring the 1920s and 1930s, Jana Gana Mana continued to be performed at cultural gatherings, though it did not displace Vande Mataram as the most widely recognised nationalist song. Both compositions occupied distinct places within the freedom movement’s symbolic repertoire.The song acquired additional political resonance during World War II, when it was adopted by Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA) as one of its anthems. It was sung by INA units in Southeast Asia and later by INA members in Japan. This further mainstreamed the song’s association with anti-colonial resistance.1947: International exposureJawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, reported in a letter that the performance of “Jana Gana Mana” received positive reviews, with delegations of different countries requesting a copy of its sheet music.However, at that point, India had not yet adopted a national anthem, and no official choice had been considered either.Debate in the Constituent AssemblyAfter Independence, the newly established government faced the question of choosing a national anthem. The decision was essentially one of constitutional and symbolic significance. Thus, the matter was therefore referred for consideration before the Constituent Assembly.Both Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram were considered. While Vande Mataram had played a central role in the freedom struggle, there were some apprehensions about its suitability for performance at international events as well as about its musical adaptability.The matter was raised in Parliament by Prime Minister Nehru on August 25, 1948. He said, “It was thought by some people that the “Vande Mataram” tune with all its very great attraction and historical background was not easily suitable for being played by orchestras in foreign countries, and there was not enough movement in it. It seemed, therefore, that while Vande Mataram should continue to be the national song par excellence in India, the National Anthem tune should be that of Jana-Gana-Mana.”Adoption as the National AnthemOn January 24, 1950, two days before India became a republic, Dr Rajendra Prasad, President of the Constituent Assembly, formally announced the adoption of Jana Gana Mana (hindi version) as the National Anthem of India. The announcement specified that, “The composition consisting of the words and music known as Jana Gana Mana is the National Anthem of India, subject to such alterations in the words as the Government may authorise as occasion arises; and the song Vande Mataram, which has played a historic part in the struggle for Indian freedom, shall be honoured equally with Jana Gana Mana and shall have equal status with it. I hope this will satisfy the Members.”Only the first stanza of Tagore’s original five-verse composition was adopted. The officially recognised version has a playing time of approximately 52 seconds.Aftermath and legacyRabindranath Tagore did not live to witness the acceptance of his composition as the national anthem. He passed away in August 1941, almost nine years before the Constituent Assembly took its decision.Notably, Tagore is the only person in world history to have penned two national anthems. His song “Amar Sonar Bangla” was Constitutionally adopted as the national anthem of Bangladesh in 1972.With time, the final four verses of ‘Jana Gana Mana’ gradually phased-out. Although, the anthem has been performed in its entirety on special occasions. The musical composition of the national anthem of India was standardized to accommodate orchestral performances during official or international gatherings.From its initial performance in a small auditorium at Calcutta way back in 1911 to its eventual adoption as a national anthem in 1950, Jana Gana Mana followed a long and documented journey shaped by political change, cultural debate, and constitutional process.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOperation Aaghat 3.0 Crushes Crime As Delhi Police Arrest 660 Accused Ahead Of New Year CelebrationsBJP MP Anurag Thakur Links Ram Name Objection to Congress Decline, Defends New Rural Jobs LawNew Zealand PM Defends India FTA as Economic Game Changer Despite Sharp Objections from AllyFrom Tsunami To Economic Collapse: India Emerged As Sri Lanka’s First Responder, Says EnvoyJames Concert Cancelled After Attack In Bangladesh As MEA Slams Anti India Protests And Mob ViolenceH-1B Visa Delays: MEA Says India Has Flagged Issue With USIndia Flags H-1B Visa Delays With US As Indians Face Backlogs Scrutiny And Policy UncertaintyPM Modi Praises Gen Z Confidence, Sees Them Leading Viksit Bharat”People Who Are…” MEA Responds To Viral Mallya And Modi “Biggest Fugitive” VideoRed Line From New Delhi: India Calls Out Yunus Govt As Minority Attacks In Bangladesh Escalate123PhotostoriesYour date of birth reveals that one single thought can change your year 2026The bottlenecks still plaguing Mumbai-Goa national highway5 warming Korean drinks meant for long, cold wintersParenting in the AI age: What 2026 parents should knowSea moss: Modern superfood or just another trend? Potential benefits explained7 things you should not punish your child for even if you think it is good for them5 times Sara Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s bond felt real, warm, and unfiltered18 best things to do on New Year’s Eve to ring in 20265 rock-cut temples beyond Ajanta & ElloraDecoded: 7 health benefits of eating a bowl of idli and sambar and 3 potential harms if not made well123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingAmrit MondalGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingFrank Lampard and Christine Lampard Net WorthJordan Spieth Net WorthRicky Tiedemann InjuryBode Miller Net WorthTravis KelceAnthony JoshuaPatrick MahomesRaghav ChadhaLaMelo BallMax Verstappen Girlfriend

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