India celebrated 75 years of freedom from British Rule on 15th August 2021. As a child, I have wonderful memories of this day. While it was always a school holiday, there was always an excitement to wake up early and get ready for flag hoisting and the short function that usually followed.
As kids we were made to learn our national symbols as a part of the education we received on India’s independence. Like most things, we were not explained the logic behind it. For example, do you know why Lotus is our national flower? I am sure most of us did not think about this.
Why is Lotus our National Flower?
Lotus was chosen as our National Flower because of its extensive depiction in ancient culture, mythology and heritage. According to the Bhagwad Gita, the lotus flower is a metaphor for detachment. The translation of the exact verse used in the Bhagwad Gita is as follows,
Those who dedicate their actions to God, abandoning all attachment, remain untouched by sin, just as a lotus leaf is untouched by water.”
Bhagwad Gita, 5.10
In my opinion, the natural characteristic of the lotus flower which rises and blooms in muddy waters is a very important life lesson for all of us. We may face difficulties and unpleasant situations/people but the key is to focus on our goals, rise and shine beyond things that pull us back behind.
Why is Hockey our National Sport?
While we all learnt that Hockey is our national sport, a recent RTI application filed in January 2020, by a school teacher based in Maharashtra revealed that no sport has been termed as the ‘national sport’ by the government as the focus is to promote all sports. This is actually the need of the hour. India is a cricket crazy country and cricketers playing for the national team receive a lot of name, fame and wealth. This has led to a lot of interest amongst youth towards cricket, overshadowing other sports such as Tennis, Hockey, and Football. In a country with 1.3bn population, with proper resources and training, we can produce some of the best sportsmen and athletes in the world on a regular basis.
Why is Tiger our National Animal?
This has a fairly intuitive answer. The Royal Bengal Tiger was declared as India’s national animal in 1972. The Royal Bengal Tiger, as the name suggests, is a royal, majestic animal. Just like India is a majestic country with multiple strengths – young demographics, rich cultural heritage and unity in diversity. The tiger is a symbol of strength and aggressiveness – just as our strong army and grace and agility – just as our strong workforce.
Why is Peacock our National Bird?
The Peacock was declared as India’s national bird in 1963. Peacock, is truly a ‘national’ bird in the sense that you can find it in different parts of the country. It is a beautiful bird, with myriad of colours across its majestic feathers. Its reference has been used in various religious traditions and mythology, notable among them of it being a vehicle for various Hindu deities. Just as the different colours of a peacock’s feather blend into one colourful sight, different religions in India blend into one culturally united nation.
Why is Mango our National Fruit?
Mango has been cultivated in India since a very long time now, nearly since more than 4000 years. Infact, the word ‘mango’ has deep-rooted origins from the Sanskrit word, ‘aamraphalam.’ Being a fruit native to India, it has been the envy of many legendary Kings and Rulers who set foot on our land. The sweet and delicious taste along with the various applications including savoury dishes, pickles, milkshakes and ice-creams makes mangoes a very essential part of our traditions and customs.
Keeping true to the essence of my activites, I made this one on the occasion of Independence Day. Comment if your child can spot it 🙂
