Vande Mataram was once a song of Hindu-Muslim unity

Vande Mataram, India's national song, was performed twice in its entirety during the National Sports Day celebrations at Kerala University on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. The Governor of Kerala, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, along with State Ministers Roji M. John, O.J. Janeesh, and the university's Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal, were present on stage.

The decision to include the full rendition of Vande Mataram came from the Governor's office, as the event included the Governor as a participant. After the singing of Vande Mataram, the national anthem was also sung. State Minister Roji M. John explained that this protocol exists when the Governor attends an official function, though he acknowledged there was limited clarity on the specific circumstances.

This event occurred shortly after another similar incident at the conclusion of Onam Week celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram, where Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan was present. During that event, Vande Mataram was also sung in full, following a protocol for the Vice-President's participation. The CPI(M) criticized the government, arguing that Vande Mataram is a "Hindu song" and questioning the move as a political accommodation with the BJP.