In which of the following years was the National Anthem adopted in its Hindi version by the Constituent Assembly?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. 1950.
The National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," was adopted in its Hindi version by the Constituent Assembly on January 24, 1950.
Background of "Jana Gana Mana":
- Original Composition: It was originally composed in Bengali by Rabindranath Tagore on December 11, 1911. The song was first sung at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress on December 27, 1911.
- Language Adaptation: The Constituent Assembly adopted a Hindi version of the song with Sanskritized words to make it accessible to a broader population.
- Musical Adaptation: The formal tune of the National Anthem was set by Captain Ram Singh Thakur of the Indian National Army (INA).
Key Facts about the National Anthem:
- Duration: The full version takes approximately 52 seconds to sing.
- Short Version: A shorter version of the anthem, consisting of the first and last lines, takes about 20 seconds.
- Official Recognition: While "Jana Gana Mana" was adopted as the National Anthem in 1950, it had already gained popularity during the freedom movement as a patriotic song.
Importance of January 24, 1950: On this day, the Constituent Assembly not only adopted "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem but also adopted "Vande Mataram" as the National Song. This marked a symbolic affirmation of India's cultural identity and national pride.