Tamil Nadu state song row clouds Vijay’s first day as CM; CPI protests, TVK seeks clarity

A controversy over song protocol overshadowed the swearing-in of Tamil Nadu’s new chief minister C Joseph Vijay on Sunday, after the traditional order of ceremonial songs was altered during the event in Chennai.

The row erupted at the ceremony held at Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium when the customary sequence was changed.

Traditionally, government functions in Tamil Nadu begin with the state invocation song “Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu” and conclude with the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.”

However, during Sunday’s swearing-in, “Vande Mataram” was played first, followed by the national anthem, while “Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu” was rendered third.

The change sparked criticism from opposition parties and even drew objections from members of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

CPI slams break from tradition

Communist Party of India state secretary M Veerapandian strongly objected to the altered order, saying it violated long-standing state protocol.

He questioned the role of Raj Bhavan in approving the sequence and said the Tamil invocation song must retain primacy at official state functions.

Veerapandian also argued that “Vande Mataram” has historically faced objections due to its religious undertones.

He called on the state government to publicly clarify how the decision was made and identify those responsible.

TVK distances itself

The ruling TVK quickly sought to distance itself from the controversy.

Newly sworn-in minister Aadhav Arjuna said the party did not support the revised sequence and remained committed to Tamil Nadu’s established ceremonial convention.

In a post on X, Arjuna described “Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu” as a symbol of Tamil identity and pride, saying it rightfully deserves to be played first at all official events in the state.

He said the new government had “no differing opinion” on the matter and described Sunday’s arrangement as inappropriate.

Governor’s office cited central circular

According to Arjuna, the issue was raised with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar after the ceremony.

He said the Governor’s office cited a Union government circular as the reason for the revised sequence.

Despite this, Arjuna asserted that future state functions under the TVK-led government would follow Tamil Nadu’s traditional format — with “Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu” opening proceedings and the national anthem concluding them.

He also called for greater recognition of state language invocation songs across India, urging the Union government to take steps to accord them due prominence.

The controversy has handed the newly formed government its first political flashpoint, even before it fully settles into office.