The difference in how the Indian national flag is displayed on Independence Day (August 15) and Republic Day (January 26) is deeply rooted in history and symbolism. While both days are of great national significance, they represent different aspects of India’s journey as a nation.
Independence Day (August 15) – Flag Hoisting Ceremony
Historical Context:
On August 15, 1947, India gained independence from British rule after nearly two centuries of colonial dominance. This day marks India’s first steps as a free nation. Before independence, the British flag (Union Jack) flew over India, and the act of hoisting the Indian national flag symbolized the emergence of a new sovereign state.
Flag Hoisting Procedure:
- On this day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi.
- The flag is tied at the bottom of the flagpole and is then pulled up (hoisted) to the top.
- Once it reaches the top, it is unfurled and the national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” is played.
- The hoisting ceremony is followed by the Prime Minister’s address to the nation, highlighting the country’s achievements and future goals.
Symbolism of Flag Hoisting:
- The hoisting of the flag from below represents the rise of a free India, symbolizing the breaking of colonial chains.
- It is a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by freedom fighters to achieve independence.
- The event signifies the birth of an independent India, where people are no longer ruled by a foreign power but by their own elected government.
Republic Day (January 26) – Flag Unfurling Ceremony
Historical Context:
While India became independent in 1947, it did not have its own Constitution and continued to follow British laws. On January 26, 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect, making India a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. This day is celebrated as Republic Day to honor the adoption of the Constitution and the establishment of India’s government as per its own laws.
Flag Unfurling Procedure:
- On Republic Day, the President of India unfurls the national flag at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) in New Delhi.
- Unlike Independence Day, the flag is already tied at the top of the flagpole.
- The President simply unfurls it (pulls a string to open it), and the national anthem is played.
This is followed by the Republic Day Parade, showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and achievements.
Symbolism of Flag Unfurling:
- The unfurling of the flag from the top signifies that India was already an independent country on this day.
- It represents the establishment of India’s own laws and governance, making it a fully functional republic.
The event is led by the President, the constitutional head of India, emphasizing that the country now operates under its own legal framework.
Key Differences Between Independence Day and Republic Day Flag Ceremonies
Conclusion
The difference in how the flag is displayed on these two national occasions reflects the different phases of India’s journey:
- August 15, 1947 (Independence Day): India attained freedom from British rule, and the flag was hoisted to mark a new beginning.
- January 26, 1950 (Republic Day): India adopted its own Constitution, and the flag was unfurled to symbolize governance under self-made laws.
Thus, the hoisting on Independence Day signifies the struggle for freedom, while the unfurling on Republic Day marks India’s status as a sovereign republic.
FAQ
What is the difference between flag hoisting on Independence Day and flag unfurling on Republic Day?
- Answer: On Independence Day (August 15), the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort, symbolizing the nation’s rise to independence in 1947. The flag is raised from the bottom to the top of the flagpole. On Republic Day (January 26), the President unfurls the flag at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath), indicating that the flag is already at the top of the pole, reflecting India’s status as a republic since 1950.
Who is authorized to hoist the national flag on Independence Day and Republic Day?
- Answer: On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the flag at the national level, while Chief Ministers do so at the state level. On Republic Day, the President unfurls the flag nationally, with Governors performing the ceremony in their respective states.
Can private citizens hoist the national flag at their homes?
- Answer: Yes, as per the Flag Code of India, any member of the public, private organization, or educational institution may hoist/display the national flag on all days, ensuring its dignity and honor are maintained.
What are the guidelines for the timing of hoisting the national flag?
- Answer: The Flag Code of India was amended to allow the flag to be flown day and night, provided it is displayed in the open or on the house of a member of the public and is hoisted in a manner consistent with the flag’s dignity.
What precautions should be taken to maintain the dignity of the national flag?
- Answer: The flag should not touch the ground or floor, be used as a drapery, or be displayed in a damaged or soiled condition. It should always be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly with respect.
Is it permissible to display the national flag on clothing?
- Answer: The national flag should not be used as a portion of a costume or uniform. However, it can be worn on the upper half of the body above the waist by way of a badge or brooch, ensuring it is not used as undergarments or below the waist.
How should a damaged national flag be disposed of?
- Answer: A damaged or soiled national flag should be disposed of in private, preferably by burning or by any other method consistent with the dignity of the flag.
Can the national flag be flown at half-mast?
- Answer: Yes, the flag can be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning, but this is subject to specific instructions issued by the government.
Are there any restrictions on flying the national flag at night?
- Answer: The Flag Code of India permits the flag to be flown at night, provided it is hoisted in the open and is appropriately illuminated.
What is the correct way to fold the national flag?
- Answer: The national flag should be folded neatly and stored in a clean and respectful manner. While the Flag Code does not specify a particular folding method, it is essential to ensure the flag is handled with dignity during folding and storage.
