A Symbol of Freedom: Exploring the History of Indian Flag

The history of Indian Flag is the story of the growth of the nation, its eternity, and its honour. This flag came into being on July 22, 1947, a few days before India became free from foreign rule. The tricolor depicts the dreams and struggles of innumerable people who fought for the nation’s independence. 

Each of the Tiranga’s colours saffron, white, or green—has significance, and in the centre, the Ashoka Wheel paints a picture of dharma and progress. But have you ever wondered how they decided to sculpt such an ideal flag? 

Several key historical events have led to the birth of the Indian flag, from its inception to the modern global wings it is recognized with today. This narrative hyperlinks us to the other end of grave endeavours made by our ancestors in terms of freedom struggle and the context of Indian history. So, let us stroll around and understand what shifted Tiranga to become the symbol of India!

Early Versions of the Indian Flag

The history of Indian flag showcases its transformation from early revolutionary designs to the iconic Tiranga we honor today. Each version of the flag reflected the aspirations and challenges of its time, symbolizing unity, freedom, and resilience. Let’s explore the evolving ideals that shaped India’s journey toward independence and nationhood.

The First Flag (1906)

The Indian flag began its convoluted and polarized journey in 1906 when the first unofficial flag was raised in Calcutta. This flag was designed with hopes in three horizontal green, yellow, and red stripes, which represented different hopes of the Indians. The green stripe had a crescent moon and the sun, while the yellow stripe had the slogan, ferociously inscribed, Vande Mataram. This phase of early design represented aspirations for independence and unity, where the hunger for independence began to take its shape.

The Flag of 1921

In 1921, Mahatma Gandhi proposed a more straightforward design that reflected India’s diverse communities. His version initially featured two colours: red to represent Hindus and green for Muslims. Later, white was added to symbolize other communities and peace and a spinning wheel (charkha) to signify self-reliance and progress. This version of the flag marked a significant step in unifying India’s population through a shared symbol of hope and freedom.

These early versions highlight the history of Indian flag as a powerful representation of the nation’s values and struggles.

The Final Design: The Birth of the Tiranga 

The final design of the Tiranga in history of Indian flag holds deep historical and symbolic significance. Its journey reflects India’s struggle for independence and its aspirations as a free nation. Let’s discuss it in detail:

Venkayya’s Contribution

Pingali Venkayya is the man credited with creating the current Indian flag. A freedom fighter, patriot, and thinker, Venkayya was, by design, a man who wanted to make a symbol that excited people. Venkayya strongly supported India’s sovereignty and presented many drafts before the final one was chosen. This resulted in the flag embracing the multiplicity of India and its respective aspirations, which made him a significant character in the history of Indian flag.

The Symbolism of the Colors

• Saffron: The saffron stripe signifies courage and sacrifice, reflecting the resilience and determination of the people who fought for India’s freedom.
• White: The white stripe represents peace and truth, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to harmony and honesty.
• Green: The green stripe stands for growth and prosperity, highlighting India’s connection to its land and hopes for a sustainable future.

The Ashok Chakra

At the heart of the flag lies the Ashok Chakra, a symbol of progress, righteousness, and eternal motion. With its 24 spokes, the wheel represents the timeless principles of justice and dharma. Derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka in Sarnath, the Chakra serves as a reminder of India’s rich heritage and the guiding values that shape its path forward. The Tiranga is a living embodiment of India’s spirit, values, and vision for the future.

Evolution of the Indian Flag Over Time 

The history of Indian flag underwent several changes during the freedom movement, reflecting the growing sense of national unity and identity. Key milestones in its evolution include:

• 1906: The first unofficial flag was hoisted in Calcutta, featuring three horizontal stripes of green, yellow, and red, along with the words “Vande Mataram.”
• 1907: Bal Gangadhar Tilak introduced the “Kesari” flag, which has a red background, a crescent moon, and a star and symbolizes Hindu-Muslim unity.
• 1921: Mahatma Gandhi designed a flag with red, green, and white stripes to represent communal harmony. Later, a spinning wheel (charkha) was added to symbolize self-reliance.
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920): The flag used in this movement featured a tricolour of red, green, and yellow, symbolizing resistance and national unity.
• Civil Disobedience Movement: Gandhi’s flag, incorporating the call for swaraj (self-rule), further evolved to symbolise the struggle for independence.

These flags, each representing different phases of the freedom movement, ultimately paved the way for the adoption of the Tiranga in 1947, which became the official flag of independent India.

The Importance of the Indian Flag 

The Indian flag is a powerful symbol of unity, pride, and patriotism, bringing together a diverse nation under one banner. It transcends regional, cultural, and religious differences, reminding citizens of their shared identity and common goal of progress. The flag serves as a unifying force, especially during national events like Independence Day and Republic Day when millions come together to celebrate India’s freedom and democratic values.

During these occasions, the flag evokes intense patriotism and national pride. It reminds the nation of the struggles and sacrifices of freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence. As the national anthem plays and the flag is hoisted, people reflect on the hardships endured by generations of Indians in pursuing freedom and justice.

The Tiranga is not only a symbol of India’s past but also of its future. It fosters a sense of collective responsibility, encouraging citizens to contribute to the nation’s growth and upholding the values of courage, peace, and prosperity represented by the flag’s colours. Whether in schools, government buildings, or homes, the Indian flag is a constant reminder of the sacrifices that made India’s independence possible and the ongoing journey of unity and progress.

Flag Code of India 

The Flag Code of India, 2002, lays down the rules and regulations governing the use, display, and respect for the national flag, ensuring that the Tiranga is treated with the dignity it deserves. The Code is a comprehensive guide to adequately handling and displaying the Indian flag, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of the nation’s identity and pride.

Some key guidelines under the Flag Code include:

• Hoisting: The flag should always be hoisted upright, with the saffron stripe on top. It must be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously.
• Display: The flag should be displayed on national holidays, at government buildings, and in other public places, and it must be flown respectfully. The flag must not touch the ground or any other object.
• Respect: The flag should never be used for commercial purposes or as a part of any clothing, drapery, or uniform, except for specific cases such as a military or ceremonial uniform. It must not be defaced or damaged.
• Dignity: The flag must be treated with the utmost respect. It should be appropriately stored and not used in any way that could cause it soiled or damaged.

The Journey of the Indian Flag

The history of Indian flag has absorbed the chronicles of maturation and struggle of the Indian Nation, starting with the first flag to the current version, the Tiranga. Each flag version represented something and served as an emblem of struggle and togetherness when India fought for freedom, which ended with adopting Tiranga in 1947. Today, the tri-colour embodies the most cherished values of the people of India: oneness, bravery, and peace. It also serves as a testimony of the struggle of innumerable unsung heroes in the quest for liberty. 

Thus, the Tiranga motivates and drives Indians to continue doing so, offer the rightful respect to the heritage of the fight for independence, and evolve further. While paying homage to the Indian flag, we should also consider its essence and ideals.

Also Read- Indian National Movement – 4 Powerful Moments

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