A new chapter in Indian sporting protocol began on Sunday at the
The performance of 'Vande Mataram' preceded the traditional playing of the national anthems of both India and Afghanistan. The inclusion of the song follows its recent appearance at the Delhi Premier League final, which was also hosted at the same venue. While the practice has not been observed in other state-level leagues, such as those in Odisha and Punjab, it is now set to become a permanent fixture for international matches held within India.
New protocol for Indian cricket fixtures
According to reports, the decision to incorporate the national song is part of a broader initiative that will extend to all future events involving the Indian team on home soil. A source confirmed that the practice is not limited to the New Delhi venue but will be implemented consistently across the country moving forward.
The introduction of this ceremony aligns with recent legislative developments regarding the national song. In July, a Press Information Bureau statement confirmed the passage of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This legislation amends the 1971 Act to provide the national song with the same legal protections as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. Under the new law, it is a punishable offence to intentionally prevent the singing of the song or to disrupt an assembly engaged in its performance.
In accordance with the 150th-anniversary celebrations of 'Vande Mataram', the Home Ministry has issued directives ensuring that the full official version, consisting of six stanzas, is performed whenever the national anthem is also played. This full version was observed during the opening match of the three-game series against Afghanistan. Following the conclusion of the formal ceremonies, the match proceeded with India captain Shreyas Iyer winning the toss and electing to field first.
