Mukesh Khanna Calls for Vande Mataram to Replace Jana Gana Mana as National Anthem
Actor Mukesh Khanna has reignited debate by calling for 'Vande Mataram' to replace 'Jana Gana Mana' as India's national anthem. He claims 'Jana Gana Mana,' written by Rabindranath Tagore during British rule, refers to a British monarch, questioning its suitability. Khanna argues 'Vande Mataram' better reflects India's freedom struggle and national identity. While his remarks sparked controversy, he maintains his stance, emphasizing the literal interpretation of the anthem's lyrics and their historical context.
First-hand measurement across 4 sources
We measured how 4 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (46/100). Lens Score 37/100.
Outlets measured: ndtv, freepressjournal, timesnow, indianexpress. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (32–50/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
indianexpress broke this story on 23 Aug, 09:35 am. Other outlets followed.