How the Indian Flag was Designed? Read about it's evolution

The Indian flag, a symbol of national pride and unity, has a rich history that reflects India's struggle for independence and its cultural heritage. Known as the "Tricolor" or "Tiranga," the current design of the flag was officially adopted on July 22, 1947, just before India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. Here’s how the Indian flag was designed and the symbolism behind its elements.

Early Designs and Influences

The idea of a national flag for India was first proposed during the freedom struggle against British colonial rule. The first unofficial flag of India, often referred to as the "Calcutta Flag," was hoisted on August 7, 1906, in Parsi Bagan Square, Calcutta. This flag featured three horizontal stripes of red, yellow, and green, representing different communities and symbols like the sun and a crescent moon.

Evolution Through the Decades

As the struggle for independence intensified, so did the evolution of the flag. By 1921, a new design was proposed by Mahatma Gandhi and Pingali Venkayya at the Indian National Congress meeting in Bezwada (now Vijayawada). This version introduced the spinning wheel or 'Charkha,' symbolizing Gandhi’s call for self-reliance and the spinning of khadi.

The Final Design

The final design of the Indian flag was adopted in 1947 and was a modification of the Swaraj flag, designed by Pingali Venkayya. The modern flag retains the tri-colors—saffron, white, and green—each symbolizing courage and sacrifice, peace and truth, and faith and chivalry, respectively. At the center is the Ashoka Chakra, a 24-spoke wheel in navy blue, which represents the eternal wheel of law in the Sarnath Lion Capital made by Emperor Ashoka.

Symbolism of Colors and the Ashoka Chakra:

• Saffron: The top band of saffron color signifies strength and courage of the country.

• White: The middle band, bearing the Ashoka Chakra, denotes peace and truth with Dharma Chakra.

• Green: The lower band indicates fertility, growth, and auspiciousness of the land.

• Ashoka Chakra: The Chakra, or wheel, from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, reflects the righteousness, progress, and perpetuity. The 24 spokes denote the endless cycle of time and the path of dharma (justice).

  
  

Legal Framework

The usage and display of the Indian flag are governed by the Flag Code of India, which ensures that the dignity of the flag is maintained at all times. The code was updated in 2002, allowing private citizens to hoist the flag on any day of the year, adhering to the specified rules and regulations.

Conclusion

The Indian flag does not just represent the nation's freedom struggle; it also stands as a symbol of the country’s diverse cultural heritage and unity. Its thoughtful design is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of the people of India and their journey towards sovereignty and self-sufficiency. Every time the flag is hoisted, it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by millions and the enduring values that continue to guide the nation forward.