Tiranga is more than just a flag; it is a living entity that has witnessed the trials and triumphs of India. It is a source of inspiration and motivation for millions of Indians who aspire to uphold its values and principles. It is a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of countless freedom fighters who gave their lives for its creation
ON AUGUST 15, 2023, India will celebrate its 77th Independence Day, a momentous occasion that commemorates the end of British colonial rule and the birth of a sovereign nation. As the Indian National Flag, also known as the Tiranga or Tricolour, flies high across the country, it symbolizes the pride and unity of the people, as well as the rich history and culture of India.
The Tiranga was officially adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947, just a few weeks before India gained its independence.
The adoption of the flag was a historic event that marked the culmination of a long and arduous struggle for freedom. The Resolution to adopt the flag was presented by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, who delivered an eloquent speech that moved the assembly members to tears. The Resolution was passed unanimously, with a standing ovation from the assembly. Since then, July 22 has been celebrated as “National Flag Adoption Day” every year.
The design of the Tiranga is based on the Swaraj flag, an earlier flag of the Indian National Congress, designed by Pingali Venkayya, a freedom fighter and a visionary. The Tiranga consists of three horizontal bands of equal size and proportion, saffron at the top, representing courage and sacrifice; white in the middle, representing peace and truth; and green at the bottom, representing prosperity and fertility. In the center of the white band is a navy blue wheel with 24 spokes the one that adorns the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka, known as the Ashoka Chakra, representing the law of dharma or righteousness.
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Tiranga is a symbol of respect and dignity that must be treated with utmost care and reverence. Until 2021, the Tiranga was exclusively made from khadi, a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric that was promoted by Mahatma Gandhi as a means of self-reliance and resistance against foreign goods. The production and distribution of the Tiranga was regulated by the Khadi Development and Village Industries Commission, which authorized only five units in India to make the flag. However, after an amendment to the flag code in 2021, the Tiranga can now be made from other materials as well, such as cotton, polyester, wool or silk, as long as they conform to the specifications laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
The Tiranga is not only flown on national occasions, but also displayed in various public places, such as government buildings, educational institutions, cultural centers and sports venues. It is also hoisted by individuals at their homes or workplaces to express their patriotism and solidarity. The Tiranga is always flown with honor and dignity, following certain rules and etiquette that ensure its proper handling and display. For instance, the Tiranga should never touch the ground or water; it should never be used as a cloth or drapery; it should never be defaced or disfigured and it should always be taken down in a respectful manner.
The Tiranga is more than just a flag; it is a sacred symbol that embodies the values and ideals of India. It is a living entity that has witnessed the trials and triumphs of India. It is a source of inspiration and motivation for millions of Indians who aspire to uphold its values and principles. It is a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of countless freedom fighters who gave their lives for its creation. It is a celebration of the diversity and harmony of India’s people who share a common bond under its shade. It is a tribute to the spirit and resilience of India that has overcome many challenges and emerged stronger than ever.
On this Independence Day 2023, let us continue to hold our National Flag in high regard and honor all that it represents.
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