Veteran Bollywood actor Sharmila Tagore said the first two verses of India’s national song, “Vande Mataram,” are sufficient when considering people of all religions in the country. In an interview with news agency IANS on Thursday, she said some portions of the song may be difficult and uncomfortable for people who believe in one creator, and may not align with everyone’s religious beliefs.

Tagore said India is home to people of different faiths, including many who believe in one God. She noted that later verses of the song mention several Hindu deities. For such believers, she said, phrases including “Bande Kali” or “Bande Durga” can be uncomfortable to recite. She argued that using the first two verses would be better and more acceptable if all religious communities are to be included.

Her comments have added a new dimension to an ongoing political debate over “Vande Mataram.” The Congress party supports singing the song’s first two verses at party events, while BJP leaders have criticised Congress over the issue. Debate over the song’s performance and historical interpretation intensified after India’s Independence Day celebrations.