Tamil Nadu Assembly adopts resolution for ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’ to be mandatorily sung first at events

The Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on August 10, 2026, mandating the singing of Tamil Thai Vazhthu before the start of events at all educational institutions, universities, government offices, public sector undertakings, and other public institutions in the state. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay introduced the government resolution, highlighting that Tamil Thai Vazhthu is a manifestation of respect for the Tamil language and culture.

The resolution aligned with constitutional guarantees of linguistic and cultural rights, aiming to safeguard Tamil Nadu's cultural identity. The resolution emphasized that Tamil is not merely a language but an integral part of life and emotion, and it is one of the world's ancient classical languages. Tamil civilization embodied one of the oldest cultural traditions globally.

The government order implementing the singing of Tamil Thai Vazhthu at government functions commenced on November 23, 1970, and it was formally recognized as the state song in December 2021 by the DMK government. However, the Union Home Ministry issued an observation in July 2026 regarding the rendering of the state song, directing the state government to commence state functions with Vande Mataram.

In response, the state government's resolution prioritized Tamil Thai Vazhthu at the beginning of events.