Telangana village sings National Anthem every morning for 100 days

Prasad Bhosekar

Hyderabad: Debate is considered essential for a vibrant democracy. Fine. But when a debate turns into controversy, and too on the issue of National Anthem, then it is something serious to think about how much worth it is. 

To stand up or not when the National Anthem is played in cinema halls has brought into sharp focus yet another debate and division which our great nation is witnessing. 

However, very far from these debates and divisions, a small village in Telangana unites and just stands up every day at the stroke of 8 am when the National Anthem- Jana Gana Mana- is played on loudspeakers facilitated by the local police. And mind you, all those who stand and salute when the 52-second National Anthem is played do so voluntarily. There's no force whatsoever on them.

It's been 100 days today ( Nov 22, 2017 ) wherein the entire Jammikunta village in Karimnagar district of newly-formed Telangana state have been celebrating everyday by standing, saluting and singing together our National Anthem. 

On the 100th day today ( Nov 22, 2017 ), the villagers had a special celebration wherein festive atmosphere prevailed. Sweets were distributed, cakes were cut with a sense of pride that National Anthem has definitely brought them together.

Started by Pingili Prashant Reddy, the Circle Inspector of Jammikunta Police Station, on August 15 this year ( 2017 ), the love for National Anthem is getting stronger with each passing day in Jammikunta village. ``Believe me, I am overwhelmed every day when people of Jammikunta come together every day at 8 am for the 52-seconds National Anthem,'' says Inspector Prashant Reddy. ``Irrespective of religion, caste, political affiliations all of them come together every morning and in fact, it was one of my endeavors to inculcate the spirit of togetherness and oneness among the villagers,'' he adds.

In fact, the villagers helped the local police in installing public address system, loudspeakers along with CC Cameras ( There are 62  close circuit cameras installed in this village ). The crime rate ratio has drastically come down. ``Everyone knows everyone in our village but meeting them every day during National Anthem is making our bonds stronger. We get at least some time to share our thoughts, well being,'' says Dr.Rajashekaram, who practices as a physician in this village.

Another interesting aspect of this National Anthem singing is that the locals are saying it has improved their lifestyle. ``There is a good reason to get up early in the morning, start our day early at 8 am. I like coming to the police station every day at 7.30 am and set up address system. It is giving me immense satisfaction,'' Mohammad Pasha, constable, says.

Even the youngsters are taking great pride. ``Can't we stand for 52 seconds for the pride of our nation,'' says Md. Jani, a student, who supports his education by riding an autorickshaw.

A small village like Jammikunta has definitely shown that if there's a will there's a way and National Anthem does bind them together.