As July 22, 2025, marks another National Flag Day, it calls for a deeper reflection on the enduring significance of India’s National Flag. More than a ceremonial observance, the day serves as a powerful reminder of the flag’s historical journey, philosophical foundation, and contemporary relevance. The Tricolour is not just a static emblem—it is a dynamic representation of national identity, sacrifice, unity, and aspiration, continuously evolving alongside the nation itself.

Historical Evolution

The genesis of the Indian National Flag is rooted in the country’s long and arduous struggle for independence. Although it was formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947, its conceptual development began much earlier. Early versions like the 1906 Calcutta Flag and Madam Bhikaji Cama’s 1907 flag expressed the nascent spirit of nationalism. The pivotal moment came in 1921 when Pingali Venkayya presented a design to Mahatma Gandhi, incorporating the spinning wheel—a symbol of self-reliance. This design ultimately evolved into the current flag, with the Ashoka Chakra replacing the spinning wheel in 1947, reflecting the ideals of ancient Indian wisdom and progress.

Symbolism of the Tricolour

Every element of the flag carries deep meaning:
Saffron represents courage and sacrifice, paying homage to those who laid down their lives for freedom.
White stands for peace, truth, and integrity.
Green symbolizes fertility, growth, and India's connection to nature.
At the center lies the Ashoka Chakra, a navy blue wheel with 24 spokes, signifying the eternal wheel of law (Dharma Chakra) and the importance of continuous progress and justice.
This visual metaphor powerfully expresses the ideals of a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.

Legal Framework and Respect

The Flag Code of India (2002) and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act (1971) establish clear protocols for the display and handling of the national flag. These guidelines aim to preserve the flag’s dignity:
It must always be hoisted at a place of honor.
It should never touch the ground or be used as clothing or decoration.
These laws ensure that the flag remains a revered national symbol, not subject to casual or disrespectful use.

The Flag as a Unifying Symbol

In a nation as diverse as India—with its multitude of languages, religions, and cultures—the Tricolour serves as a unifying force. It transcends social and regional boundaries, embodying a shared national identity. During national celebrations such as Independence Day and Republic Day, the flag evokes a collective sense of pride and belonging. It also plays a crucial role in solemn occasions, such as military funerals, where it is draped over the coffins of martyrs, symbolizing the nation’s respect and gratitude.

The Role of Citizens and Institutions

Today, the flag continues to be a pervasive part of public life. It flies over government buildings, educational institutions, and increasingly, private homes and businesses. This everyday visibility—what scholars term “banal nationalism”—serves as a subtle yet powerful reminder of civic responsibility. Schools, in particular, use flag-hoisting ceremonies and national anthem recitations to instill patriotism and democratic values among young citizens.

Conclusion

As we commemorate National Flag Day 2025, we are called not just to honor a symbol, but to reflect on the ideals it represents: freedom, unity, justice, equality, and progress. The Tricolour stands as a visual chronicle of India’s past, a marker of its present, and a beacon for its future. It commands respect not through force, but through the powerful values it embodies and the collective memory it evokes. Let this day renew our commitment to the ideals that the national flag so proudly represents.

                                                                             E-mail:------------------------dcrai@bhu.ac.in