Republic Day: Understanding the difference between flag unfurling and hoisting
Every year on January 26, India commemorates Republic Day, celebrating the moment when the Constitution of India took effect in 1950. This pivotal event marks India's transformation into a republic with a democratically elected government and a written constitution that upholds values like democracy, secularism, and unity. The grand festivities include a parade in New Delhi, followed by the unfurling of the flag by the president on Kartavya Path. Have you wondered how flag unfurling and hoisting are different?
Flag unfurling v/s flag hoisting: Techniques explained
Flag unfurling involves unveiling or unfolding a flag that has been folded or rolled up, typically by attaching the flag to a rope and pulling it to unfurl. This method is often used for big flags that are large to be hoisted up a flagpole or for flags displayed indoors, or in parades. In contrast, flag hoisting entails raising a flag up a flagpole or mast using a flagpole halyard—a rope/cable designed for raising and lowering the flag.
Placement of the national flag during ceremonies
The positioning of the national flag during ceremonies highlights another key difference. On Independence Day, the national flag is tied and positioned at the base of the pole. The tricolor is then raised from bottom to top by the Prime Minister, signifying the importance of the historical moment. However, on Republic Day, the flag is tied at the top of the pole and is unfurled by the president without being pulled, as it is already at the top.
Who unfurls or hoists the flag?
The first Independence Day was observed without a president. Before the office was abolished, Lord Mountbatten was the Governor General of India, an equivalent post to the presidency. The prime minister, who was chosen as the official representative of the Indian people, was given the responsibility of raising the flag of a newly independent nation. On Republic Day, the President of India, as the country's first citizen and constitutional head of state, "unfurls" the flag.
Symbolism of flag hoisting and unfurling
The hoisting of the national flag on Independence Day symbolizes the emergence of a new nation, patriotism, and liberation from colonial rule. A ceremonial flag-raising event often accompanies this process featuring a military or civilian honor guard raising the flag while a band plays the national anthem. Conversely, the national flag is unfurled on Republic Day, representing the country's dedication to its Constitution and the values it embodies.
