Mizoram Assembly unanimously adopts 'Ro Min Rel Sak Ang Che' as state song

The Mizoram Assembly on Thursday, August 27 unanimously adopted the Mizo patriotic song 'Ro Min Rel Sak Ang Che' as the official state song.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma moved the resolution in the House, saying around 14 states in the country already have their own state songs and there was no objection to Mizoram having one as long as it did not conflict with the national anthem or national song.

Lalduhoma said the state Cabinet, at its meeting on August 10, had decided that Mizoram should have an official state song and unanimously selected the composition by renowned Mizo writer and composer Rokunga.

Explaining the significance of the song, the chief minister said it proclaims God as the sovereign ruler, the steadfast foundation above all nations and the King of kings.

"It is a prayer seeking God's guidance, protection and righteous rule over our land and people," he said.

"May it inspire us to establish God's kingdom in the governance of our land and give us the faith and strength to overcome difficult and challenging times," Lalduhoma added.

He said the General Administration Department (GAD) would issue guidelines or a code governing the use of the state song.

According to the chief minister, whenever the song is officially sung, people should stand, place their right hand over the left side of the chest and sing it in a prayerful and reverent spirit.

The resolution was passed unanimously after a prolonged discussion involving several members of the Assembly.

Composed by Rokunga in 1947, 'Ro Min Rel Sak Ang Che', which means 'Be Thou our Counsellor', was declared a Mizo anthem by the Mizo National Front (MNF) during the insurgency period.

The song has since been widely regarded as the state's anthem, although it had not received formal official recognition.

In 2022, the Mizoram government under the MNF had directed schools across the state to sing the song before the start of classes.