The Tricolor

To think of it, it is quite a challenge to come up with the insignia that represent a nation. There are requirements of symbolism, then are aesthetic requirements and you need to get it right the first time. If a nation's insignia is subject to change after its genesis, it stands to lose its aura as the natural representation of that nation. That change may well set the precedent for each meteorically influential demagogue to toy around with the national symbols.

In this regard, I believe that our then national leaders did a remarkable job in giving India her national flag. The symbolism is as profound as it is unique and it is achieved with such elegant simplicity.

From the aesthetic perspective, I find the flag's symmetry most appealing. While this may seem trivial, it is to be recognized that most of the world's national flags don't look the same when seen from either side. For arguemnt's sake we can look at the flags of India's neighbours, Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Myannmar (Burma), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives.



None of these flags have that kind of symmetry. Even the Bangladeshi flag has its red sun slighty closer to the mast. I must mention here that the symmetry in the Indian flag is not accidental. It was one of the reasons for the Ashoka Chakra replacing the Congress's spindle.

Yea... but then who can't find a reason to think something is beautiful, let alone his or her own national flag. I can make a much more forceful arguement for symbolism. The Ashoka Chakra effectively tells India's story from Emperor Ashoka's "conquest by dhamma" to Mahatma Gandhi's sathyagraha. It is unique, the wheel stands for something uniquely Indian and the wheel appears only on the Indian flag. Once again, I would like to make a comparison, the Stars and Stripes is almost instantly and universally recognized as an American emblem. But, does a star or a stripe uniquely represent the American polity and ethos? I guess not. There are other flags that do say something about their nations' distinctive culture. The Mexican flag, with its eagle, rattle snake and cactus is one example, the sword wielding lion of Sri Lanka is another. But I believe (and it is just my belief..) that they end up trying too hard and compromise on the elegance that comes with simplicity.


So, to conclude, Kudos Mr. Pingali Venkaiya. MERAA BHAARAT MAHAAN...