2. National Symbols
A national symbol is a symbol that represents a country.
It can be a flag, an emblem, an anthem or song, a bird, a
tree, a river, etc.
India has many national symbols which are all part of our
heritage.
3. The National Flag
The national flag of India is also called the Tiranga or the Tricolour.
The top colour, saffron, signifies sacrifice and patriotism.
The middle colour, white, stands for truth in word and actions and
purity in our thoughts.
The bottom colour, green,stands for life and prosperity.
In the middle of the white band is a blue wheel, which is called the
Ashoka Chakra. It has 24 spokes and it stands for progress.
4. The National Emblem
India’s national emblem is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of
Ashoka at Sarnath.
The wheel in the centre has a bull on the right and
a horse on the left.The motto ‘Satyameva Jayate’
means truth alone triumphs.
The emblem forms a part of the official letterhead
of the Government of India and appears on all
Indian currency.
5. The National Anthem
India’s national anthem is Jana Gana Mana.
It was written by the great poet and writer,
Rabindranath Tagore.
The anthem mentions different parts of India
and says that all Indians are one.
It is sung at all national events.
6. Other Symbols of India
India also has a national song ‘ Vande Mataram’ written by Bankim
Chandra Chatterjee.
India has a national animal - the tiger, a national bird - the peacock
and a national flower - the lotus.