National Anthem painted alongside national emblems on the Shree Secondary School wall. Khutta, Mahottari District.
A national anthem serves as a powerful symbol of a country's values, history, and culture. Singing or just listening to it, the citizenry can feel a sense of shared identity and belonging that transcends regional, ethnic, or religious differences. It can remind citizens of the sacrifices made by their forefathers, the struggles and triumphant history of a nation, and the values that unite its people. The significance of a national anthem lies in its ability to evoke national pride, unity, and identity among the citizens of a country.
The national anthem is a sign of a country's sovereignty and independence. It represents the country's cultural heritage and identity and is a reminder that the country is a distinct entity on the world stage. When played or sung at international events, the national anthem can instill a sense of pride and respect for the country among foreign visitors and participants.
Rules of playing and singing of the national anthem came into highlight again because of the National Dignity Bill 2079. Nepal National Assembly meeting on Chaitra 12 2079 BS (26 March 2023) gave unanimous approval to the National Dignity Bill of 2079 BS (2023). But before this dignity bill, we already had Procedures related to the use of the National Flag and National Anthem which contained all the rules to follow about using the national flag and the national anthem.
Nepal’s National Anthem
The Nepali national anthem is named "Sayaun Thunga Phool Ka" and was composed by Ambar Gurung, while the lyrics were written by Byakul Maila (Pradeep Kumar Rai). It is sung in the Nepali language and has been officially declared as the national anthem of Nepal in Schedule-2 of the country's Constitution (related to clause 1 of Article 9).
On Jestha 15, 2063 BS (19 May 2006), the previous national anthem "Shriman Gambhira Nepali" was replaced by the current national anthem, which was officially implemented.
“Sayaun Thunga Phool Ka Hami Eutai Mala Nepali
Sarvavhaum Vai Failiyeka Mechi Mahakali
Prakitika Koti Koti Sampada Ko Aanchala
Bir Haruka Ragata Le Swatantra Ra Atala
Gyana Bhumi Shanti Bhumi Terai Pahad Himala
Akhanda Yo Pyaro Hamro Matri Bhumi Nepal
Bahul Jati Bhasa Dharma Sanskriti Chan Bishala
Agragami Rastra Hamro Jaya Jaya Nepal.”
The national anthem embodies a sense of patriotism and respect toward Nepal and its people. It describes the country's unity, diverse geography, abundant natural resources, brave ancestors, peaceful environment, and sovereign status. It also celebrates Nepal's ethnic, linguistic, and social diversity, and praises the country's leading position as a source of national pride.
The national anthem has been included in Nepal's national emblems as a symbol of the country's identity and pride.
Procedure related to the use of the National Flag and National Anthem, 2012 AD. (राष्ट्रिय झण्डा र राष्ट्रिय गानको प्रयोग सम्बन्धी कार्यविधि, २०६९)
This law contains the rule and procedures about using the national anthem and the national flag.
This Procedure provides guidelines on the proper use and display of the national flag and national anthem in various settings, including official and ceremonial events, as well as the responsibilities of individuals and organizations in relation to their use. This law came into effect in 2069 BS (2012 AD) and the first amendment was done on Badhra 2 2076 (19 August 2019) Here are the points this provision contains about the guidelines of the national anthem.
Where should the national anthem be sung?
The national anthem must be used mandatorily during national festivals, various formal programs, departmental (military) gatherings, military honors, student prayers, sports events, radio, and television.
What is the time and method for using the National Anthem?
- During official and special events organized by any government or non-governmental organization, or at embassies, when the national anthem is played or sung, the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Chairman of the Constituent Assembly, Chief Justice, and other officials should stand in a dignified and respectful manner with their heads held high, and sing the national anthem in a loud and enthusiastic voice.
- National Servants of the Security agencies shall show proper respect as per departmental practice.
- The national anthem should be played in any national festival or formal program, military parade, military honors, sports event, and school prayers.
- The national anthem must be played at the beginning and end of all programs on radio and television.
- Everyone should be requested to stand up in attention during the National Anthem.
- While playing the national anthem or national tune during the beginning and end of the cultural and entertainment program all nationals should stand in a dignified and respectful manner with their heads held high, and sing the national anthem in a loud and enthusiastic voice.
- While playing the national anthem or national tune during paying tribute and giving the ultimate salute to highly distinguished and notable individuals nationals should stand in a dignified and respectful manner with their heads held high, and sing the national anthem in a loud and enthusiastic voice.
- These rules are for the occasions mentioned above and it is not mandatory to follow them when the national anthem or national tune is played by individuals in private or while traveling in public places.
What is not allowed when it comes to using the national anthem?
It is prohibited to disrespect the national anthem by using it inappropriately or without context.
Bill on National Dignity (राष्ट्रिय मर्यादा सम्बन्धमा व्यवस्था गर्न बनेको विधयक)
Nepal National Assembly meeting on Chaitra 12 2079 BS (26 March 2023) gave unanimous approval to the National Dignity Bill of 2079.
The National Dignity Bill is legislation that aims to protect and promote the dignity of individuals within a country. The bill outlines guidelines for singing the national anthem and demonstrating respect for it. It has mentioned some of the same provisions the “Procedure related to the use of the National Flag and National Anthem, 2069” contained and some slightly different rules. These guidelines aim to promote the appropriate use and respect for the national anthem of Nepal. Rules regarding the national anthem are outlined in Section 5 of this bill.
Use of the National Anthem as described in the National Dignity Bill
Section 5 of this bill contains the national anthem which has managed the subsections about the uses of the national anthem, Honoring the National Anthem, and National tune.
Uses of the national anthem
The national anthem must be used in a variety of settings, including national ceremonies, ceremonial events, military gatherings, military honors, student prayers, sports events, radio broadcasts, and television broadcasts. Any other arrangements about the use of the National Anthem will be determined in accordance with the prescribed guidelines.
Honoring the National Anthem
- The national anthem should be sung during formal and significant events organized by any agency or office of the Government of Nepal, provincial government, local level, non-governmental organizations, associations, and diplomatic missions.
- While singing the national anthem or playing the national tune all the nationals including the individuals who hold the position of authority must follow the same rule.
- During this time all individuals must stand at attention, form a 'V' shape with their feet, keep their heads up, lift their chests, and sing the national anthem aloud and joyfully.
- This provision should not be interpreted as an obstacle to showing appropriate respect for individuals with disabilities based on their physical condition.
- While singing the national anthem or playing the National Tune, the individuals who work at the National Security Service/ agencies shall show proper respect as per departmental practice.
- These rules are for the occasions mentioned above and it is not mandatory to follow them when the national anthem or national tune is played by individuals in private or while traveling in public places.
National Tune
- National tune means the original musical sound (track) of the national anthem.
- National tunes will be played before starting the federal parliament meetings, and state assembly meetings.
- The national tune should be accorded the same level of respect as the national anthem when it is played.
- When using the national tune, the original music (track) that is set to the tune of the national anthem should be played.
- In security agency/military programs, the original tune of the national anthem should be mixed with the national anthem when in use, and it can be possible to play it using their military band.

Sheet music for National Anthem of Federal Democratic Republic Of Nepal.