The Indian national flag consists of three horizontal stripes of different colours. The top stripe is saffron, symbolising courage and sacrifice, the middle stripe is white representing peace and truth and the bottom stripe is green, signifying faith and chivalry.
The centre of the white stripe features a navy blue Ashoka Chakra with 24 spokes. It represents the eternal wheel of law and dharma (righteousness).
The current design of the Indian flag was officially adopted on July 22, 1947.
The Indian flag has a specific aspect ratio of 3:2, meaning the length of the flag is 1.5 times its width. Each colour band is of equal width.
The Indian flag must be made from khadi, a hand-spun and handwoven cloth popularised by Mahatma Gandhi. This fabric choice symbolises self-reliance and the struggle for independence.
The Indian flag underwent several changes before settling on the current tricolour design. Early versions included symbols like the Union Jack, the Star of India, and various other elements reflecting India's colonial past.