The Tiranga, or the Indian National Flag, is not just a piece of cloth; it is the soul of India’s freedom, unity, and identity. The history of the Tiranga reflects the struggles, sacrifices, and aspirations of the Indian people during their long journey toward independence. Every color and symbol in the flag carries deep meaning, reminding us of the values on which our nation stands.
The Early Attempts at a National Flag
Before independence, several versions of the Indian flag were designed as a symbol of resistance and unity against British colonial rule:
- 1906: The first unofficial flag of India was hoisted in Calcutta (now Kolkata). It had green, yellow, and red horizontal stripes with symbols like the sun and moon.
- 1907: Madam Bhikaji Cama and Indian revolutionaries in Paris unfurled another flag, often called the “Berlin Committee Flag.”
- 1917: During the Home Rule Movement led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant, a new flag was introduced with red, green, and the Union Jack in one corner.
These early flags represented the growing desire for freedom but lacked a single design that could unite all Indians.
Evolution of the Tiranga
The true journey of the Tiranga began with Pingali Venkayya, a freedom fighter and visionary who proposed a flag design in 1921. His version had two colors – red for Hindus and green for Muslims – later Mahatma Gandhi suggested adding a white stripe for peace and the spinning wheel (charkha) to represent self-reliance.
- 1931: A major step came when the tricolor with saffron, white, and green was adopted, with the spinning wheel in the center. This became the direct forerunner of today’s national flag.
- 1947: On 22nd July 1947, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the present form of the national flag, designed by Pingali Venkayya. The charkha was replaced by the Ashoka Chakra, a navy-blue wheel with 24 spokes, symbolizing truth, justice, and progress.
Symbolism of the Tiranga
The Tiranga is not just about colors but about values and ideals:
- Saffron (Top): Courage, sacrifice, and strength of the nation.
- White (Middle): Peace, purity, and truth.
- Green (Bottom): Prosperity, fertility, and growth.
- Ashoka Chakra: The eternal wheel of law, representing motion, progress, and righteousness.
Tiranga and Independence
The Tiranga was first officially hoisted as the National Flag of India on 15th August 1947, the day India gained independence. From that moment, it became a symbol of India’s sovereignty and democracy.
Legal Protection of the Tiranga
The Indian National Flag is protected under the Flag Code of India (2002) and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. Every Indian has the right to hoist the Tiranga with respect, but certain rules must always be followed to preserve its dignity.
Tiranga Today – A Symbol of Unity
From government buildings to schools, from sports events to space missions, the Tiranga flies high, representing India’s pride. Whether during the Independence Day celebrations, Republic Day parades, or at the top of Mount Everest, the Tiranga continues to inspire unity and patriotism.