Tamil Chief Minister Petitions Modi for State Anthem Recognition
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has petitioned Prime Minister Modi for a clear directive on allowing Tamil Thai Vazhthu as a state song at government functions. The move seeks to align with long-standing local traditions while addressing administrative concerns.
Highlights
- •Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Joseph Vijay
- •Wrote to Prime Minister Modi for clarification on Ministry order
- •Tamil Thai Vazhthu as a state invocation song
- •Public concern over change in sequence during government functions
Chennai—Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking a clarification or modification in the Ministry of Home Affairs Order No.14/2/2025-Public, dated 28th January 2026. This intervention is aimed at allowing state invocation songs, including Tamil Thai Vazhthu, to be sung at the start of government functions.
Harmonizing State Practice with Home Ministry Orders
Vijay's communication
The significance of this request cannot be understated. Tamil Thai Vazhthu, written by Manonmaniam P.Sundaram Pillai in 1891, is an ode to the Tamil language, culture, and heritage. For decades, it has been a cornerstone of public life, sung at governmental, educational, cultural, and community events throughout the state.
Vijay's letter notes that despite the Home Ministry allowing State songs like Tamil Thai Vazhthu without explicit prohibition, a recent shift in practice at Lok Bhavan—singing the national anthem first followed by Vande Mataram and ultimately Tamil Thai Vazhthu—is causing public concern. This change disrupts the existing order established by the state government.
The current sequence at government functions is Vande Mataram, National Anthem, Tamil Thai Vazhthu, while public officials have expressed deep concerns about this administrative divergence from the long-standing and officially recognized practice in the state. Despite not barring the singing of State songs before national anthems, recent functions held at Lok Bhavan placed Tamil Thai Vazhthu towards the end.
Chief Minister Vijay has firmly stated that, "The Government and people of Tamil Nadu hold the National Anthem and the National Song in the highest esteem. We have consistently upheld the dignity and decorum associated with all national symbols and remain deeply committed to the unity, integrity and constitutional values of India."
