National symbols of India facts for kids

The modern Republic of India has many special National symbols. These symbols help show what the country is all about and its rich history. They include things like the flag, the national emblem, and the anthem. India also has national symbols for its animal, bird, fruit, flower, and tree. These symbols were chosen carefully to show India's culture, beliefs, and its best qualities. For example, the design of India's national flag was officially chosen on July 24, 1947, just before India became independent.

India's National Symbols

India is a country with many different religions and ways of life. It is a secular country, meaning it does not have an official "state religion." Four of the world's major religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism – all started in India.

Here is a list of some of India's important national symbols:

Symbol	Name	Image
Official name	Republic of India Hindi: भारत गणराज्य ("Bhārat Gaṇarājya")
National flag	Flag of India ("Tiraṅgā")
National emblem	State Emblem of India ("Lion Capital of Ashoka")
National motto	Satyameva Jayate Sanskrit: सत्यमेव जयते ("Truth Alone Triumphs")
National anthem	Jana Gana Mana ("Thou Art the Ruler of the Minds of All People")
National song	Vande Mataram ("I bow to thee, O Mother!")
National days	Independence Day and Republic Day
National currency	Indian rupee ("₹, INR")
National calendar	Indian national calendar
National colors	Saffron, White and Green              Sky blue (sports)
National cockade	Indian cockade
National animal	Bengal tiger
National heritage animal	Indian elephant
National aquatic animal	South Asian river dolphin
National reptile	King cobra
National bird	Indian peacock
National flower	Indian lotus
National tree	Indian banyan
National fruit	Mango
National river	Ganges

Fun Facts About India's National Symbols

• The national anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," was first sung on December 27, 1911. It became the official national anthem much later, on January 24, 1950.
• India's national bird, the peacock, is known for its amazing beauty and grace.
• Before April 1973, the national animal was the lion. Now, it is the powerful bengal tiger.
• The lotus flower is a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and fertility. It is also linked to the goddess Lakshmi.
• Even though the lotus grows in muddy water, it always looks clean and beautiful.
• India produces more than half of all the mangoes in the world!
• The Indian flag has three colors:
  • The saffron color at the top shows strength and courage.
  • The white in the middle stands for peace.
  • The green at the bottom represents growth and the richness of the land.
• The blue wheel in the middle of the flag is called the "chakra." It has 24 spokes, which represent the 24 hours of a day. It reminds us that life is always moving forward.
• The Banyan tree is India's national tree. It has branches that spread out and grow roots downwards, making it seem like it lives forever. This is why it represents eternal life.

Related pages

• National symbols of Bangladesh
• National symbols of Pakistan

Images for kids

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  Flag of India