The National Emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which was originally found at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. The emblem was adopted on 26th January 1950, the same day when India became a republic. It is a symbol of national sovereignty and represents India's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Significance of the Emblem

The emblem consists of four lions standing back to back mounted on an abacus with a frieze carrying sculptures in high relief of an elephant, a galloping horse, a bull, and a lion separated by intervening wheels over a bell-shaped lotus. The whole assembly rests on a circular base. The emblem symbolizes power, courage, and confidence.

The Four Lions

The four lions represent power, courage, pride, and confidence. They are standing back to back, which symbolizes unity in diversity, the idea of India. The lions also represent the Ashoka Chakra, which appears on the national flag and is also a symbol of India's sovereignty.

The Abacus

The abacus is a square-shaped platform that the lions are standing on. It represents honesty, justice, and impartiality, which are the core values of a democratic country.

The Frieze

The frieze is a decorative band that runs around the abacus and carries sculptures in high relief. It depicts an elephant, a galloping horse, a bull, and a lion separated by intervening wheels over a bell-shaped lotus. The elephant represents strength, the horse represents speed, the bull represents hard work, and the lion represents courage.

The Lotus

The lotus is a sacred flower in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration. It is also a symbol of the Indian culture.

Conclusion

The National Emblem of India is a symbol of national sovereignty and represents India's rich cultural and historical heritage. It consists of four lions standing back to back mounted on an abacus with a frieze carrying sculptures in high relief of an elephant, a galloping horse, a bull, and a lion separated by intervening wheels over a bell-shaped lotus. The whole assembly rests on a circular base. The emblem symbolizes power, courage, and confidence, and represents the core values of a democratic country.