As far as the question of National Anthem is concerned, I would say that ‘Vande Mataram’ can be our National Anthem. The history of our struggle for independence is associated with Vande Mataram. If it be said that is tune is not fit for orchestrisation I would submit that this is a difficulty which can be overcome by experts in orchestral music. Lyrical songs of Mahakavi Soordas and Meerabai can be sung not only in one but in many tunes. It is therefore wrong to think that ‘Vande Mataram’ is not suited for orchestrisation. There is no person who has no respect in his heart for Rabindranath Tagore – the King among poets. The verse “Jana Mana Gana” was composed on the occasion of the visit of the late Emperor George the V to India in 1911. The poem offers greetings, not to Mother India, but to the late King Emperor. Every sentiment in it is in relation to the” Bharat Bhagia Vidhata” and who is meant is clear from the expression “victory to the Emperor” (Jai Rajeshwar). It is evident that in a Republic we cannot in our National Anthem offer any greetings to any ‘Rajeshwar’. ‘Vande Mataram’ alone, therefore can be our National Anthem.
