7 months ago
Ramesh recalls adoption of emblem, motto on Republic Day
On Republic Day, Jairam Ramesh, a Congress leader, talked about how India chose its national emblem and motto.
The emblem is the Lion Capital of Ashoka, found in Sarnath in 1905.
The motto 'Satyameva Jayate,' which means 'Truth alone triumphs,' comes from an ancient Indian text called the Mundaka Upanishad.
It was decided to use this motto in early 1949 after some debate.
Before that, there was a different phrase, 'Dharmachakra Pravartanaya,' which was even displayed in the old Parliament building until 2023.
Ramesh also mentioned that some people thought the motto should be 'Satyameva Jayati,' but scholars agreed on 'Satyameva Jayate.'
Jairam Ramesh recalled the adoption of the Lion Capital of Ashoka as the national emblem on Republic Day.
The national motto 'Satyameva Jayate' was chosen in early 1949, derived from the Mundaka Upanishad.
There was a debate over the correct form of the motto, with some suggesting 'Satyameva Jayati.'
The original Lion Capital included a large wheel over the lions' shoulders, as noted by historian Radha Kumud Mookerjee.
The phrase 'Dharmachakra Pravartanaya' was initially used in some reports and displayed in the old Parliament building until 2023.
- Who
- Jairam Ramesh, Congress leader
- What
- Recalled the adoption of the national emblem and motto
- Where
- New Delhi, India
- When
- January 26, 2024 (77th Republic Day)
- Why
- To commemorate the 77th Republic Day and discuss the historical significance of the national emblem and motto
Key facts
- Date
- January 26, 2024
- Event
- 77th Republic Day
- National Emblem
- Lion Capital of Ashoka
- National Motto
- Satyameva Jayate
- Source of Motto
- Mundaka Upanishad
- Historical Context
- Adopted in early 1949
- Previous Motto Proposal
- Dharmachakra Pravartanaya
- Old Parliament Building
- Displayed 'Dharmachakra Pravartanaya' until 2023
Timeline
Ramesh slams Modi's silence on key issues.
Then, he spotlights India's emblem, motto on R-Day.
Criticizing Modi's farmer stance, no pressers, he emphasizes national symbols.
BJP's history, policies draw Ramesh's fire, leading to R-Day focus.
On R-Day, Ramesh recalls 1949 adoption of Ashoka's Lion Capital, 'Satyameva Jayate'.
Quotes
Jairam Ramesh
Congress leader and politician
“It was only by early 1949 that the motto 'Satyameva Jayate' taken from the Mundaka Upanishad, was added below the abacus as the national motto.”
thehansindia.com
“There were quite a few who said it should be Satyameva Jayati and not Satyameva Jayate. Eminent Sanskrit and other scholars were consulted, who agreed that it should be Satyameva Jayate.”
thehansindia.com
Narendra Modi
Prime Minister of India
“The Republic Day parade showcased India's formidable security apparatus, reflecting the nation's preparedness, technological capability and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its citizens.”
thehansindia.com
Sources
Ramesh recalls adoption of Emblem, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ as nat’l motto
Ramesh recalls adoption of national emblem, 'Satyameva Jayate' as national motto
On R-Day, Ramesh recalls adoption of national emblem, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ as national motto
From OP Sindoor To Indigenous Missiles: India showcases military might at 77th R-Day parade
