National Symbols of India
India has a rich tapestry of national symbols that reflect its diverse culture and heritage. Here are some of the key national symbols:
1. National Flag
- Design: The flag consists of three horizontal stripes: saffron (top), white (middle), and green (bottom).
- Symbolism: Saffron represents courage and sacrifice, white symbolizes peace and truth, and green stands for faith and chivalry. The Ashoka Chakra, with 24 spokes, represents the eternal wheel of law and righteousness.
2. National Anthem
- Title: "Jana Gana Mana"
- Composer: Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.
- Significance: The anthem expresses the unity and diversity of the Indian populace.
3. National Song
- Title: "Vande Mataram"
- Composer: Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, set to music by Rabindranath Tagore.
- Importance: The song evokes feelings of patriotism and reverence for the motherland.
4. National Animal
- Bengal Tiger:
- Symbolism: The tiger represents strength, power, and grace, and is also an endangered species, highlighting the need for wildlife conservation in India.
5. National Bird
- Indian Peacock (Peafowl):
- Cultural Significance: The peacock is often associated with beauty and grace in Indian mythology and art. It is also the national bird due to its vibrant plumage and dance.
6. National Flower
- Lotus:
- Symbolism: The lotus is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in Hinduism and Buddhism. It grows in muddy water, yet blooms beautifully, representing resilience.
7. National Tree
- Banyan Tree:
- Significance: Known for its longevity and extensive root system, the banyan tree represents immortality and is often associated with wisdom and shelter.
8. National Fruit
- Mango:
- Cultural Importance: Often referred to as the "king of fruits," the mango is celebrated for its sweetness and is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, cuisine, and festivals.
9. National River
- Ganges:
- Spiritual Significance: The Ganges is considered the holiest river in India. It plays a vital role in Indian spirituality, culture, and agriculture, and is often worshipped as a goddess.
10. National Emblem
- Lion Capital of Ashoka:
- Description: The emblem features four Asiatic lions standing back to back on a circular abacus. Beneath the lions are a bull, horse, elephant, and a lion, representing various aspects of life.
- Symbolism: It signifies power, courage, and confidence. The motto “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs) is inscribed below, highlighting the importance of truth in Indian philosophy.
11. National Calender
- Saka Calender:
- Adoption: The Saka Calendar was officially adopted by the Government of India in 1957 as the national civil calendar.
- Basis: It is a lunisolar calendar, which means it is based on both the lunar months and the solar year.
12. National Reptile
- Indian cobra:
- Appearance: The Indian cobra is known for its distinctive hood, which it can expand when threatened. It typically has a smooth, shiny body with patterns that vary in color, ranging from yellowish-brown to black.
- Size: Adult cobras can grow up to 1.5 to 2.5 meters in length.
13. National Vegetable
- Pumpkin:
- Appearance: Pumpkins are large, round vegetables with a thick, orange or yellow skin and a hollow interior filled with seeds and pulp.
14. National Currency
- Indian Rupee:
- Symbol: The symbol for the Indian Rupee is ₹, which was officially adopted in 2010.
- Subunit: The Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular: paisa), although coins of paise are less commonly used today.
15. National Heritage Animal
- Indian elephant:
- Appearance: Indian elephants are distinguished by their smaller ears compared to African elephants and a more rounded back. Males usually have tusks, while females typically do not.
- Size: They are the largest land mammals in India, with adult males weighing between 4,000 to 5,500 kg and standing about 2 to 3 meters tall at the shoulder.