Archive · 27 Jan 2026
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
- When
- January 26, 2024 (77th Republic Day)
- Where
- New Delhi, India
- Why
- To commemorate the 77th Republic Day and discuss the historical significance of the national emblem and motto
- 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
Sources
On R-Day, Ramesh recalls adoption of national emblem, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ as national motto
Ramesh recalls adoption of national emblem, 'Satyameva Jayate' as national motto
Ramesh recalls adoption of Emblem, ‘Satyameva Jayate’ as nat’l motto
150 yrs of ‘Vande Mataram’ with rare artwork celebrated
