The Tiranga, or the Indian national flag, is one of the most revered symbols of India’s sovereignty, unity, and rich heritage. It represents the ideals, struggles, and aspirations of a nation that gained independence after years of colonization and sacrifice. Every Indian citizen feels a deep sense of pride when they see the Tiranga unfurl, whether on Republic Day, Independence Day, or during moments of national significance.

In this comprehensive article, we explore the history, significance, design, evolution, and protocols associated with the Tiranga, emphasizing its role in shaping India’s national identity.

Historical Evolution of the Tiranga

The journey of India’s national flag is deeply intertwined with the country’s freedom struggle. Before the adoption of the current national flag, several other flags were used during different periods of resistance against colonial rule.

1. The First Indian Flag (1906)

The first known flag to represent India was hoisted on August 7, 1906, in Parsee Bagan Square (now Girish Park) in Kolkata. This flag consisted of three horizontal stripes of green, yellow, and red. The top stripe had eight white lotuses, the middle stripe contained the words “Vande Mataram” in Devanagari script, and the bottom stripe had a sun and a crescent moon.

2. The Berlin Committee Flag (1907)

Madame Bhikaiji Cama and other revolutionaries hoisted another version of the Indian flag in 1907 in Stuttgart, Germany. It had three horizontal stripes—green, yellow, and red—similar to the 1906 flag, but with slight variations in symbols and texts.

3. The Home Rule Movement Flag (1917)

During Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant’s Home Rule Movement in 1917, another flag was introduced. This flag had five red and four green stripes arranged alternately and featured the Union Jack at the top left corner with seven stars (representing the Saptarishi constellation).

4. The Swaraj Flag by Mahatma Gandhi (1921)

A significant development came in 1921, when Mahatma Gandhi proposed a flag featuring two colors—red and green—representing Hindus and Muslims, respectively. Later, white was added to symbolize peace, and a spinning wheel (Charkha) was introduced to represent self-reliance.

5. The Final Version of the Tiranga (1947)

The present tricolor flag was adopted on July 22, 1947, just before India gained independence. The original Charkha was replaced with the Ashoka Chakra, symbolizing dharma (righteousness) and progress. The design was inspired by Pingali Venkayya’s earlier flag proposals.

Meaning and Symbolism of the Tiranga

The national flag is more than just fabric; it embodies the aspirations of over a billion Indians. The flag consists of three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, with a navy blue Ashoka Chakra in the center.

1. Saffron (Topmost Stripe)

The saffron color represents courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of renunciation. It is a tribute to the martyrs who fought for India’s freedom and a reminder of the nation’s commitment to selfless service.

2. White (Middle Stripe)

The white stripe stands for truth, peace, and purity. It reflects India’s commitment to non-violence and harmony among its diverse communities.

3. Green (Bottom Stripe)

Green symbolizes growth, fertility, and prosperity. It represents India’s agricultural richness, the environment, and progress.

4. Ashoka Chakra (Central Wheel)

The navy blue Ashoka Chakra in the center of the white stripe has 24 equally spaced spokes. It is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka and signifies dynamism, movement, and righteousness. The 24 spokes represent 24 virtues, including perseverance, faith, and justice.

Manufacturing and Material of the Tiranga

The Tiranga is made according to strict guidelines set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The material used for making the flag is Khadi, a handspun fabric popularized by Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom movement.

The Karnataka Khadi Gramodyog Samyukta Sangha (KKGSS) is the only authorized manufacturer of the Indian national flag. Any deviation from the standard design, color, or size is considered disrespectful.

The Flag Code of India

To maintain the dignity of the Tiranga, the Flag Code of India, 2002, lays down specific rules regarding its hoisting, display, and disposal.

1. Proper Usage

• The flag must be hoisted horizontally or displayed on a staff at an angle.

• It should always occupy a position of honor and prominence.

• The national flag should not touch the ground.

• No other flag should be placed above or to the right of the national flag.

2. Restrictions

• The flag cannot be used for commercial or decorative purposes.

• It should not be printed on clothing, cushions, or undergarments.

• Hoisting a damaged or discolored flag is considered disrespectful.

• It should never be draped over vehicles, boats, or trains.

3. Disposal

When the flag becomes old or damaged, it must be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by burning or burying it with due respect.

Tiranga and National Festivals

The national flag takes center stage during major national celebrations like Independence Day (August 15) and Republic Day (January 26). It is hoisted by the Prime Minister at the Red Fort on Independence Day and by the President at Rajpath on Republic Day.

The Tiranga and the Armed Forces

The Tiranga is held in the highest regard by India’s armed forces. It is a source of motivation for soldiers, symbolizing their commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty.

The national flag is draped over the coffins of martyrs as a mark of honor. The families of fallen soldiers receive the flag as a token of their loved one’s supreme sacrifice.

Conclusion

The Tiranga is more than a piece of cloth; it is a living symbol of India’s struggles, victories, and dreams. Every stripe and symbol tells the story of a nation that stands for unity in diversity, resilience, and progress. It reminds every Indian of their duty towards the nation and inspires a sense of patriotism that transcends generations.

By respecting and upholding the dignity of the national flag, every Indian contributes to the preservation of its legacy, values, and significance. The Tiranga, in all its glory, continues to flutter high, embodying the soul of India.

Jai Hind!