As India marks its 77th Independence Day, the tricolour flag, a symbol of unity and resilience, takes centre stage. The history of India's national flag is a testament to the nation's journey towards freedom and its cultural diversity. From its humble beginnings to its iconic status, the flag has undergone several transformations, each reflecting the evolving spirit of the nation.

3 things you need to know

• India's flag evolution: From Bhagini Nivedita to the tricolour emblem.
• Symbolic journey capturing unity, diversity, and historical significance.
• Evolution mirrors India's struggle, progress, and unyielding spirit.

Bhagini Nivedita Flag - 1905: A Burst of Yellow and Red

In 1904, Bhagini Nivedita, a devoted disciple of Swami Vivekananda, crafted the first version of the Indian flag. It featured vibrant yellow and red hues with a 'Vajra' at the centre and the words 'Vande Mataram' in Bengali. This early design encapsulated the fervour for freedom that was beginning to sweep across the nation.

(A devoted disciple of Swami Vivekananda crafted the first version of the Indian flag | Image: Twitter)

Unofficial Flag of India - 1906: A Multitude of Colors and Symbols

In 1906, the first unofficial Indian flag unfurled over Parsee Bagan in Kolkata. Sporting green, yellow, and red horizontal stripes, it featured eight lotus flowers on the top green stripe and a crescent moon and sun on the bottom red stripe, symbolizing Islam and Hinduism. The centre panel proudly displayed 'Vande Mataram' in Devnagiri script, representing the diverse culture and religions of the land.

(In 1906, the first unofficial Indian flag unfurled over Parsee Bagan in Kolkata | Image: Twitter)

Berlin Committee Flag - 1907: A Global Unveiling

The 'Cama flag' or 'Berlin Committee flag,' designed by Madam Bhikaji Cama, Veer Savarkar, and Shyamji Krishna Varma, gained international attention when hoisted at the International Socialist Conference in Germany. The saffron and lotus-adorned flag represented India's unyielding spirit on the global stage.

(It was designed by Madam Bhikaji Cama, Veer Savarkar, and Shyamji Krishna Varma | Image: Twitter)

The Home Rule Movement Flag - 1917: A Call for Dominion Status

In 1917, during the Home Rule Movement, a new flag emerged, signalling India's desire for dominion status. This flag bore five red and four green stripes interspersed with seven stars in the saptarishi pattern. The Union Jack and a white crescent star adorned the corners, symbolizing India's unity amidst its struggle.

(In 1917, during the Home Rule Movement, a new flag emerged | Image: Twitter)

National Flag Unofficially Adopted in 1921: Gandhi's Spinning Wheel

In 1921, Pingali Venkayya's tricolour design, initially with green and red, was enhanced at Mahatma Gandhi's suggestion. A white stripe and the iconic spinning wheel, symbolizing self-sufficiency and non-violent resistance, were added. This design laid the foundation for the future tricolour.

(Pingali Venkayya's tricolour design, initially with green and red | Image: Twitter)

Flag Adopted in 1931: A Balanced Triad

A refined version of the flag emerged in 1931 with saffron at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. The Charkha persisted as a prominent emblem. Congress declared that the colours represented strength, truth, and fertility, transcending community affiliations.

(In 1931 with saffron at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom | Image: Twitter)

The Tricolour Unveiled in 1947: A Nation's New Dawn

Finally, in 1947, as India achieved independence, the flag evolved into its present form. The Charkha was replaced by Ashoka's Dharma chakra in the middle white stripe. The Constituent Assembly formally adopted this flag as the national emblem, symbolizing India's transformation into a sovereign republic.

(Finally, in 1947, as India achieved independence | Image: Shutterstock)

The Indian national flag has journeyed through history, embodying the struggles, aspirations, and achievements of the Indian people. As the nation celebrates its 77th Independence Day, the tricolour continues to wave proudly, a beacon of unity, freedom, and progress.