Playing The National Anthem in cinema halls

Dr. Suresh Chandvankar
801 Bhaskara, TIFR Hsg. Complex, Navynagar, Colaba
Mumbai 400 005. tel.022-2280 4986
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Date: January 18, 2007

Subject: Playing The National Anthem in cinema halls

Petition statement:

As per the TV news of June 26, 2006, 'JGM' video produced by Bharatbala Productions [Sony Music, 2000] will be screened in ALL cinema halls, replacing the fluttering Indian flag shown on the screen.

I strongly object such screening and record my protest for the following reasons:

1] Duration of this video is more than 100 seconds, whereas as per the Anthem code, it should be sung/played for 52-55 seconds only.

2] The Anthem is to be sung in chorus and not in solo or duet as shown in this video.

3] The Anthem should either be sung in chorus or played on military brass band but never mixed. This video freely mixes the two and hence violates the provisions of 'The Anthem' code.

4] The artists shown in this video sing The Anthem in parts and wave their hands, make gestures and take taans, murkis as in the renderings of a bandish in classical music.

5] The audience watching this video in cinema halls may carry incorrect message of singing/playing The Anthem and may try to imitate and set new and objectionable way of singing/playing of 'The Anthem'.

I, herewith appeal all concerned to withdraw this decision of new video screening in cinema halls. I also request the concerned authorities to review the need and purpose of playing The Anthem in the cinema halls.
Many cinema halls have introduced new 'digital image' of the flag that is quite different from the fluttering flag and this is highly objectionable.

Thanks
Sd/-
[Suresh Chandvankar]
[email protected]