History of Indian Flag

The Indian Flag, also known as the Tiranga (meaning tricolor in Hindi), is one of the most revered national symbols in India. It represents the nation's struggle for independence, its values of equality and justice, and the spirit of unity in diversity. The flag holds deep historical significance, as it reflects the journey of India’s freedom movement and its evolution as a sovereign nation. In this article, we will explore the history of the Indian flag, from its early origins to its current design, shedding light on its symbolism, various versions, and the meaning behind its colors.

Early Beginnings of the Indian Flag

The journey of the Indian flag began long before India gained independence in 1947. The concept of a national flag was first introduced during the late 19th century. However, various designs and symbols were used over time, representing the diverse cultures and ideologies of India’s people.

1. The First National Flag (1906)The first known version of an Indian national flag was raised in 1906 by the Indian National Congress during a protest against British colonial rule. This flag consisted of three horizontal stripes: green at the top, yellow in the middle, and red at the bottom. The flag featured a crescent moon and a star on the left-hand side. This was not a formal national flag but a symbol of protest and unity against British oppression.
2. The 1917 FlagAnother significant step towards the national flag was the flag adopted in 1917, which was presented by the Home Rule Movement under Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. This flag had five red and four green horizontal stripes, with a Union Jack (British flag) in the top-left corner. It was used to demand self-rule and to express the aspirations of the Indian people for greater autonomy under the British Empire.

The Flag of the Indian National Congress (INC)