Apply Now
Share
05-08-2024

National Symbols of India: A Visual Journey 

Listen to this blog

National Symbols of India

  • National Flag: Tiranga
  • National Anthem: Jana Gana Mana
  • National Calendar: Saka Calendar
  • National Song: Vande Mataram
  • National Emblem: National Emblem of India
  • National Fruit: Mango
  • National River: Ganga
  • National Animal: Royal Bengal Tiger
  • National Tree: Indian Banyan
  • National Aquatic Animal: Ganges River Dolphin
  • National Bird: Indian Peacock
  • National Currency: Indian Rupee
  • National Reptile: King Cobra
  • National Heritage Animal: Indian Elephant
  • National Flower: Lotus
  • National Vegetable: Pumpkin
  • Oath of Allegiance: National Pledge

National Symbols of India: An Overview of Identity and Heritage

National Flag: Tiranga

The national flag, known as the Tricolor, is a key representation of India's identity. It consists of three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, with a blue Ashoka Chakra in the center. Each color in the flag has its own meaning: saffron stands for courage and sacrifice, white for peace and truth, and green symbolizes growth and fertility. The Ashoka Chakra, a 24-spoke wheel, represents justice and righteousness. The Indian flag has strict protocols for its usage, and hoisting it with respect is of utmost importance.

 

National Anthem: Jana Gana Mana

"Jana Gana Mana," written by Rabindranath Tagore, is India’s national anthem. It celebrates the country’s unity and diversity, praising its vast cultural heritage. Composed in 1911 and adopted on January 24, 1950, the anthem reflects national aspirations and identity, calling for unity and pride among all citizens.

National Calendar: Saka Calendar

The Saka Calendar is India’s official calendar, used alongside the Gregorian calendar for official purposes. It’s based on the ancient Hindu lunar calendar, beginning in 78 AD. Consisting of 12 months starting with the new moon, it reflects India’s historical and cultural heritage, symbolizing continuity in modern times.

National Song: Vande Mataram

"Vande Mataram," written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and composed by Rabindranath Tagore, is India’s national song. Meaning "I Bow to Thee, Mother," it praises the motherland for its beauty and strength. Published in the 1880s and adopted on January 24, 1950, it symbolizes national pride and unity.

National Emblem: National Emblem of India

The National Emblem of India, adapted from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, represents sovereignty and authority. It features four lions back-to-back, a lotus base, and a banderole with the motto "Satyamev Jayate" (Truth Alone Triumphs). Adopted on January 26, 1950, it embodies justice, truth, and integrity.

National Fruit: Mango

The mango, India’s national fruit, symbolizes richness and cultural significance. Known as the "King of Fruits," it comes in varieties like Alphonso and Dasheri. Valued in cuisine and festivals, the mango reflects India’s agricultural heritage and culinary diversity.

National River: Ganga

The Ganga, India’s national river, is sacred to Hindus and vital for agriculture. Originating from the Himalayas, it represents purity and life-giving power. Its historical and ecological significance underscores its spiritual importance and its role in the country's cultural and environmental heritage.

National Animal: Royal Bengal Tiger

The Royal Bengal Tiger is India’s national animal, symbolizing the country’s wildlife heritage. As the world's longest venomous snake, it is crucial to ecological balance. Its conservation highlights India’s commitment to protecting its natural resources and iconic species.

National Tree: Indian Banyan

The Indian Banyan tree, with its extensive canopy and aerial roots, is India’s national tree. It symbolizes immortality and resilience. Providing shade and habitat, it holds cultural and spiritual significance, representing strength and interconnectedness in nature.

National Aquatic Animal: Ganges River Dolphin

The Ganges River Dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is endangered and native to the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems. Its unique appearance and role in maintaining ecological balance reflect India’s dedication to conserving aquatic biodiversity.

National Bird: Indian Peacock

The Indian Peacock, India’s national bird, is known for its vibrant plumage and courtship display. It symbolizes beauty, grace, and prosperity. Revered in mythology and art, it represents elegance and reflects India’s rich wildlife heritage.

National Currency: Indian Rupee

The Indian Rupee (INR) is the national currency, representing India’s economic identity and stability. Issued by the Reserve Bank of India, the rupee features the ? symbol, adopted in 2010. It reflects the nation's economic progress and financial independence.

National Reptile: King Cobra

The King Cobra, India’s national reptile, is known for its size and venom. Found in Indian forests, it plays a crucial role as a top predator. Its status highlights India’s commitment to conserving its diverse reptilian wildlife.

National Heritage Animal: Indian Elephant

The Indian Elephant, India’s national heritage animal, symbolizes wisdom and cultural significance. Integral to traditions and festivals, it represents strength and prosperity. Conservation efforts focus on preserving its habitat, reflecting India’s dedication to protecting its natural and cultural heritage.

National Flower: Lotus

The Lotus, India’s national flower, represents purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Its vibrant colors and ability to bloom in muddy waters are symbolic of resilience and beauty. Revered in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, it embodies India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

National Vegetable: Pumpkin

The Pumpkin, India’s national vegetable, is valued for its versatility and nutrition. Used in various dishes, it contributes to culinary diversity and agricultural abundance. The pumpkin symbolizes India’s rich diet and agricultural practices.

Oath of Allegiance: National Pledge

The National Pledge, adopted on January 26, 1950, is a solemn oath emphasizing unity, integrity, and dedication to the nation. It reflects democratic values and national pride, reminding citizens of their collective responsibility and commitment to India’s progress and ideals.

quiz corner

1. Who designed the National Flag of India?




2. What does the saffron color in the Indian National Flag represent?




3. Which symbol is at the center of the Indian National Flag?




4. When was the National Emblem of India adopted?




5. Who wrote the Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana"?




6. What does the National Song "Vande Mataram" symbolize?




7. Which animal is the National Heritage Animal of India?




8. What does "Jana Gana Mana" celebrate?




9. Which river is recognized as the National River of India?




10. What is the National Tree of India?




11. What is the significance of the Ashoka Chakra in the National Flag of India?




12. When was "Jana Gana Mana" first performed publicly?




13. Who authored the song "Vande Mataram"?




14. Which of the following is NOT a National Symbol of India?




15. What does the inscription "Satyameva Jayate" below the National Emblem of India mean?




Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The National Flag of India, also known as the Tricolour, features three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, with the Ashoka Chakra in navy blue at the centre. It symbolises courage, sacrifice, and unity.

The National Flag of India was designed by Pingali Venkayya in 1921. The design was later modified and officially adopted on July 22, 1947.

  • Saffron: Represents courage and sacrifice
  • White: Symbolises truth and peace
  • Green: Denotes faith and chivalry
  • Ashoka Chakra: Represents the righteousness of dharma

The National Emblem of India features the Lion Capital of Ashoka with four Asiatic lions standing back to back on a circular abacus. Below the abacus is the inscription "Satyameva Jayate" meaning "Truth Alone Triumphs."

The National Emblem of India was adopted on January 26, 1950.

The Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," was written by Rabindranath Tagore. It was first publicly performed on December 27, 1911.

"Jana Gana Mana" represents India's unity and diversity, celebrating the nation's pluralistic identity.

The National Song, "Vande Mataram," was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1870. It was first featured in his novel "Anandamath."

"Vande Mataram" is a patriotic song that symbolises devotion to India as a motherland and played a significant role in India's independence movement.

Other important national symbols include:
  • National Calendar: Saka calendar
  • National Fruit: Mango
  • National River: Ganga
  • National Animal: Royal Bengal Tiger
  • National Tree: Indian Banyan
  • National Aquatic Animal: Ganges River Dolphin
  • National Bird: Indian Peacock
  • National Currency: Indian Rupee
  • National Reptile: King Cobra
  • National Heritage Animal: Indian Elephant
  • National Flower: Lotus
  • National Vegetable: Pumpkin
  • Oath of Allegiance: National Pledge

National symbols represent the values, heritage, and identity of a nation. They unify citizens, evoke patriotism, and remind people of their shared history and aspirations.

The National Flag should be treated with respect and dignity, following the Flag Code of India. It should not be used for commercial purposes or in any manner that disrespects its significance.

The National Symbols of India represent the country's rich cultural heritage, history, and values. They were chosen to reflect the diverse and unified nature of the nation. The symbols include elements that embody the spirit of independence, unity, and patriotism, and each has a significant historical context that contributes to India's identity as a nation.

The 17 National Symbols of India are:
  • National Flag: Tiranga
  • National Anthem: Jana Gana Mana
  • National Calendar: Saka Calendar
  • National Song: Vande Mataram
  • National Emblem: National Emblem of India
  • National Fruit: Mango
  • National River: Ganga
  • National Animal: Royal Bengal Tiger
  • National Tree: Indian Banyan
  • National Aquatic Animal: Ganges River Dolphin
  • National Bird: Indian Peacock
  • National Currency: Indian Rupee
  • National Reptile: King Cobra
  • National Heritage Animal: Indian Elephant
  • National Flower: Lotus
  • National Vegetable: Pumpkin
  • Oath of Allegiance: National Pledge

To explain national symbols to kids, use simple language and relatable examples. Start by showing them pictures of each symbol and explaining what it represents. For instance, you can say, "The National Flag of India is like a special banner that shows our country's pride. The colours and the wheel in the middle have important meanings that tell us about our country's values."

The slogan on the National Emblem of India is "Satyameva Jayate," which means "Truth Alone Triumphs."

Indian symbols are important because they represent the nation's identity, values, and heritage. They help to foster a sense of unity and pride among citizens, remind them of the country's history, and symbolise the shared ideals of independence, integrity, and patriotism.

Indian symbols represent various aspects of the country's identity, including its history, culture, and values. Each symbol conveys a unique message about India's heritage, such as the National Flag symbolising unity and diversity, or the National Emblem representing strength and righteousness.

National Symbols are icons or representations that stand for a country's identity, heritage, and values. They are used to express the essence of the nation and are recognized and respected by its citizens.

The sacred symbol of India is often considered to be the Lotus flower. It represents purity, beauty, wealth, and spiritual awakening in Indian culture and religion.

The full name of India is the "Republic of India" (Bharat Ganrajya in Hindi).

The caption of the National Emblem of India is "Satyameva Jayate," which translates to "Truth Alone Triumphs."

The national emblem of India is known as the "Lion Capital of Ashoka."

India's proud slogan is "Satyameva Jayate," meaning "Truth Alone Triumphs."

National symbols are visual representations or icons that embody the identity, values, and heritage of a nation, serving as a unifying element for its people.

The learning objective of national symbols is to educate individuals about the history, values, and identity of their country. Understanding these symbols helps foster national pride, unity, and respect for the nation's heritage.

To explain symbols to a child, use simple language, engaging visuals, and relatable examples. Explain what each symbol stands for in a way that connects with their everyday experiences. For instance, describe the National Flag as a special banner that shows our country's colours and values.

National symbols are important because they represent the country's identity, history, and values. They foster a sense of unity and pride, serve as reminders of the nation's heritage, and play a crucial role in cultural and national events.

For kids, the National Flag of India, the Indian Peacock (national bird), and the Lotus (national flower) are often highlighted as significant national symbols. These symbols are colourful and easy to understand, making them suitable for children's learning.

You write "National Symbols of India" as follows: "National Symbols" followed by "of India." This term refers to the various icons that represent the country's identity, such as the flag, emblem, anthem, and other cultural and natural symbols.

Testimonials




Latest Blogs

Informal Letter: Formats, Examples, and How to Write Effectively

List of Holidays and festivals in 2025

How To Write A Police Complaint letter : Samples & Tips

Impact of IBCP Subject Choices on Career Pathways

How IBCP Students Can Manage Academic and Career-Related Studies


Knowledgeumites


Brochure
logo logo logo

© Knowledgeum