What is the State Song of Karnataka?

“Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate, Jaya he Karnataka Maate” is a Kannada-language poem written by Kuvempu. This poem, which means “Victory to you Mother Karnataka, The Daughter of Mother India,” was officially declared the state anthem of Karnataka in 2004. It envisions a Karnataka that values its position among Indian states, promotes peaceful co-existence, and maintains self-respect and dignity with confidence and strength.

Creation of the State Song of Karnataka

The poem was composed by the renowned Kannada poet Kuvempu. In the 1960s, singer Mysore Ananthaswamy gave the poem its tune. Ananthaswamy performed the song in the presence of Kuvempu at Maharaja’s College, Mysore, and noted in his diary that Kuvempu approved of the tune.

Adoption as a State Song

The proposal to make the poem Karnataka’s state anthem was first suggested by the government in 2000. In December 2003, to celebrate Kuvempu’s birth centenary, the state cabinet announced its decision to adopt the poem as the anthem. On January 10, 2004, the government issued an official order declaring it the state anthem (naadageethe).

Implementation of the State Song of Karnataka

The order directed that the song should be rendered daily before the commencement of classes in all schools and sung at all official events. It also specified that those present during the singing of the anthem should stand as a mark of respect. Schools and event organizers were informed that they could use a selected portion of the song as outlined in the annexure of the order.

The anthem is a shortened version of Kuvempu’s original poem. Of the original 44 lines, 21 were excluded to create the anthem.

Lyrics and Music of State Song of Karnataka

• Lyrics: Kuppalli Venkatappa Puttappa (Kuvempu)
• Music: Mysore Ananthaswamy
• Published: 1924
• Adopted: January 6, 2004

Significance of the State Song of Karnataka

The anthem “Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate” embodies the spirit of Karnataka, emphasizing its cultural heritage, unity, and pride. It is a daily reminder for students and citizens alike of their state’s values and their role within the larger Indian nation.