indian national flag

 

Introduction to the Indian National Flag



The Indian national flag full history reflects the story of India’s freedom, unity, and identity. Our tricolour isn’t only a national symbol—it’s a message of courage, truth, and progress. Known as the Tiranga, the flag represents values that inspired India’s freedom fighters and continues motivating millions today.

Right from its early designs in 1904 to the official adoption in 1947, the journey of the flag is filled with innovation, sacrifices, and patriotic emotions. This guide explores every major detail, ensuring you understand the complete history, meaning, design rules, and facts.

Early Roots of the Indian National Flag

First Flag of 1904

The earliest known Indian flag was created by Sister Nivedita in 1904. This flag contained a vajra symbol, Bengali script, and a yellow background. It symbolized strength and unity, although it wasn’t widely used.

The 1906 Calcutta Flag

Unfurled on 7 August 1906, this flag at Parsee Bagan Square in Kolkata is considered India’s first public national flag.
It had:

  • Three horizontal stripes (green, yellow, red)

  • The sun and moon symbols

  • Vande Mataram written in the center

The 1907 Madame Cama Flag

In 1907, revolutionaries including Madame Bhikaji Cama unfurled a flag in Paris. This was a modified version with:

  • Green, saffron, and red stripes

  • Vande Mataram script

  • Eight lotuses representing provinces

It is believed to be the first Indian flag ever hoisted on foreign soil.

Evolution Toward Today’s Tricolour

1921 Vijayawada Flag Proposal

In 1921, an Indian youth proposed a simple two-colour flag to Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian National Congress session at Vijayawada. The design had:

  • Red (Hindus)

  • Green (Muslims)

Gandhi added a white stripe and a charkha, symbolizing progress and unity.

Role of Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi believed the flag must represent:

  • All communities

  • Self-reliance

  • Peace

  • India’s struggle

His inputs shaped the structure of the modern tricolour.

Adoption of the Final Tricolour in 1947

Constituent Assembly Decision

On 22 July 1947, the Constituent Assembly adopted the official tricolour for independent India. The charkha was replaced with the Ashoka Chakra, representing law and righteousness.

This flag was officially hoisted for the first time on 15 August 1947 at the Red Fort.

Detailed Meaning Behind the Tricolour

Saffron: Courage and Sacrifice

The top band signifies bravery, leadership, and selfless service. It honours countless freedom fighters and soldiers.

White: Peace and Honesty

The middle band represents truth, harmony, and the path of righteousness.

Green: Growth and Prosperity

Green stands for fertility, agriculture, development, and the future of India.

The Ashoka Chakra: Law and Dharma

The navy-blue wheel in the center has 24 spokes, symbolizing:

  • Justice

  • Duty

  • Discipline

  • Continuity of life and movement

It is adapted from the Lion Capital of Ashoka found at Sarnath.

Design Specifications of the Indian Flag

Dimensions and Ratios

The Indian flag follows a 2:3 ratio (length : width).
For example:

  • If width = 2 ft → length must be 3 ft

  • If width = 4 ft → length must be 6 ft

Colour Standards

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) dictates exact shades:

  • Saffron (India saffron)

  • White

  • India green

  • Navy blue for Ashoka Chakra

These colours cannot be randomly altered.

Manufacturing the Indian National Flag

The Khadi Rule

Only khadi cloth (hand-spun and hand-woven) can be used for the authentic national flag.
The Karnataka Khadi Board is India’s primary authorized manufacturer.

How BIS Approves Flag Production

All flags must pass strict tests for:

  • Shine

  • Strength

  • Colourfastness

  • Stitch quality

  • Chakra precision

Only after passing these tests can a flag be sold as the official Tiranga.

Legal Rules and Flag Code of India

Do’s of Flag Usage

  • Hoist the flag during national festivals

  • Display it at educational buildings, government offices, and homes

  • Maintain dignity and cleanliness

  • Stand during the national flag unfurling

Don’ts of Flag Usage

  • Don’t use it for drapery, clothing, or costumes

  • Don’t let it touch the ground

  • Don’t print it on disposable items

  • Don’t deface it with writing or graphics

The Flag Code of India 2002 governs all usage.

Landmark Moments in Indian Flag History

Flag Hoisting on 15 August 1947

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian flag at the Red Fort for the first time in independent India. This historic moment marked the end of British rule.

Indian Flag on Space Missions

Indian scientists have taken the flag to:

  • Space missions

  • Antarctic expeditions

  • Mount Everest

Indian-origin astronauts proudly display it on global scientific missions.

Indian Flag in Modern Times

Republic Day and Independence Day

Two major national events where the Tiranga is central:

  • 26 January (Republic Day): Parade at Rajpath

  • 15 August (Independence Day): Red Fort celebrations

Common Citizen Rights After 2002

Since 2002, every Indian citizen is allowed to hoist the flag on any day, following the Flag Code of India.

Interesting Facts About the Indian Flag

  • Only khadi can be used for official flags

  • The Ashoka Chakra always rotates clockwise

  • The Indian flag was sent to space with Rakesh Sharma

  • It inspired many international movements of peace

  • The world’s tallest Indian flag is over 360 feet high

  • Tiranga is one of the world’s most respected national symbols

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