Fri Nov 07 12:31:51 UTC 2025: Summary:

West Bengal has mandated that all state-run and aided schools must sing the state song, “Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol,” (“The Soil of Bengal, The Water of Bengal”), written by Rabindranath Tagore, during morning assembly, alongside the national anthem. This decision, driven by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, aims to foster social and communal unity. While some teachers welcome the move, viewing it as a celebration of Bengali identity, others express concerns about its potential for divisive identity politics and see it as coercive, potentially undermining the concept of a united India. The directive follows West Bengal’s earlier declaration of a State Day and Song in December 2023.

News Article:

West Bengal Schools Now Required to Sing State Song Amidst Mixed Reactions

Kolkata, November 7, 2025 – The West Bengal government has mandated the singing of the state song, “Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol” (“The Soil of Bengal, The Water of Bengal”) by Rabindranath Tagore, in all government and government-aided schools during morning assemblies. The directive, effective immediately, aims to promote social and communal unity within the state.

State Education Minister Bratya Basu stated that the move, spearheaded by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, will serve as a “special catalyst” for unity when performed alongside the national anthem. Schools began the day with three renditions: Vande Mataram (on the occasion of its 150th anniversary), “Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol”, and the national anthem.

However, the decision has drawn mixed reactions from the teaching community. While some educators see it as a positive assertion of Bengali identity, particularly ahead of state elections next year, others express concerns about potential negative consequences. One teacher, speaking anonymously, worried that it could lead to divisive identity politics.

Krishnakoli Ray, headmistress of Dhakuria Sree Ramakrishna Vidyapith for Girls, criticized the order as “coercive” and potentially detrimental to the concept of a united India. “West Bengal is not a separate geographical entity, but has been and always will be a part of undivided India,” she stated.

The move follows West Bengal’s declaration in December 2023 of Poila Boisakh as State Day and “Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol” as the State Song, which has been compulsory at official events. The implications of this new mandate for school curricula and the broader cultural landscape of West Bengal remain to be seen.

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