The Tiranga in India’s Freedom Movement

How the flag developed into a symbol of unity and resistance during the struggle for independence.

During India’s long freedom struggle, flags played an important role as visual emblems of unity and resistance. Early nationalist leaders and movements used a variety of banners and designs to rally people, to mark public gatherings, and to articulate political aspirations. Over time, the idea of a single, unifying flag gained force as activists sought a symbol that could represent the whole of India and not just a single group’s interests.

The tricolour concept gradually emerged as a design that could speak to multiple communities while pointing toward a shared political future. Prominent freedom movement figures and grassroots activists debated colours and symbols, seeking a design that would be widely acceptable and resonant. The eventual adoption of the tricolour with the Ashoka Chakra reflected those efforts to build a consensus that transcended narrow interests.

Flags were not merely decorative; they helped create identity and cohesion among disparate groups. Carrying a common flag at public meetings and protests visually reinforced the idea of a shared political project. The Tiranga became associated with sacrifice, protest, and the aspiration for self-rule, imbuing it with emotional weight that carried into the post-independence era.

After independence, the flag’s continued centrality in national life reminded citizens of the sacrifices made for freedom. It also became a teaching device in schools and civic institutions, connecting new generations to an oral and visual history of the movement. Importantly, the flag’s adoption and use reflected a commitment to inclusivity by avoiding symbols tied to specific religious traditions.

Remembering the flag’s role in the freedom movement is not about nostalgia; it is about recognizing how shared symbols can mobilise people for collective goals and why preserving those symbols’ dignity matters today. Har Ghar Tiranga builds on that legacy by encouraging citizens to keep the flag’s memory alive through everyday respectful display.