The Mizoram Legislative Assembly achieved a major cultural milestone on Thursday by unanimously adopting the cherished patriotic song 'Ro Min Rel Sak Ang Che' as the official state song. Presenting the resolution before the House, Chief Minister Lalduhoma emphasized that several Indian states have previously established their own official songs. He reassured members that adopting this historic anthem creates no conflict whatsoever with the national anthem or the national song of India, providing formal statutory weight to a melody that has resonated through Mizo households for generations.
Cabinet Approval and Regulatory Guidelines
Detailing the administrative journey behind the move, Chief Minister Lalduhoma explained that the state Cabinet had formally deliberated on the proposal during its meeting on August 10. The Cabinet unanimously agreed that Mizoram needed an official state song and selected the iconic work composed by celebrated Mizo writer Rokunga. Following the Assembly's unanimous endorsement, the General Administration Department (GAD) will now formulate a dedicated set of rules and guidelines. This code of conduct will outline the exact circumstances, formal occasions, and procedures governing when and how the state song must be performed across public and official gatherings.
Spiritual Significance and Standing Etiquette
'Ro Min Rel Sak Ang Che', which translates to "Be Thou our Counsellor", holds deep spiritual resonance for the local populace. Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted that the verses portray God as the ultimate sovereign ruler and King of kings, invoking divine direction, safety, and righteous administration for Mizoram and its citizens. To uphold the dignity of the song during formal functions, the Chief Minister specified clear protocol: attendees are expected to stand up, place their right hand over the left side of their chest, and sing along with a prayerful, reverent disposition whenever the official song is rendered.
From 1947 Origins to Official State Emblem
The history of the composition dates back to 1947, when renowned Mizo author and composer Rokunga penned and set the music for the piece. Over the decades, its cultural footprint expanded significantly. During the era of insurgency, the Mizo National Front (MNF) declared it as the Mizo anthem. Despite lacking formal government recognition for decades, the song functioned as a de facto state anthem. In 2022, the former MNF-led government took a decisive step by directing all schools throughout Mizoram to sing the song before starting daily morning classes. Thursday's unanimous Assembly vote finally seals its place as the official state song of Mizoram.
