By Dorothy Mathias
Our national flag is a stirring sight
As it flutters high, with all its might
The symbol of freedom, unity, and diversity,
A stunning kite in the sparkling sunlight.
Designed by freedom fighter Pingali Venkayya, so we’re told,
Its size, use, and display regulated by a code.
The colours of saffron, white, and green
Are no mystery to what they mean.
“Saffron” stands for sacrificial courage
And dedication our leaders must encourage.
“White” portrays purity, peace, the path of truth,
To guide the conduct of our blooming youth.
“Green” signifies fertility, growth, prosperity
In India’s every village, town, and city.
The Ashoka Chakra that the Indian emblem depicts
Symbolizes the insignia of the Mauryan epic.
“Wheel of the law of dharma,” in equal proportion,
Denotes life in motion—for there’s death in stagnation.
Twenty-four hours' progress for the 24 spokes in colour blue,
That’s placed in the horizontal band of the white hue.
On Independence and Republic Day,
Be it a gathering, ceremony, or parade—
As the tricolour unfurls above me,
My heart swells with pride as I see:
Not just any rag—this is my country's flag,
Our identity, our international name tag.
Wives have mourned, mothers have cried
Over their heroic jawans who’ve valiantly died
To protect our flag from abuse and disgrace,
And preserve the dignity of the Indian race.
Martyred the day they take the oath,
Ensuring till their dying day it’s not broke.
Secularism is one of our national goals, they say—
When the citizens realize it, that will be the day.
So come on, everybody, let us pledge
Not to let our Motherland go over the edge.
For if we don't do something fast,
Our Tiranga will soon be a thing of the past.