What are the Indian symbols and their meaning?
Indian symbols define the history and culture of the country. Each symbol has significance and explains about the Indian culture. A list of National Symbols of India depicts the pride of the country.
When it comes to the national animal’s symbol, it chooses to be a tiger, which symbolizes power. Lotus is the national flower, which is known for its purity. On the other hand, the banyan tree is the national tree, which symbolizes immortality, and the bird is the peacock, which depicts the world about your elegance. Above all, mango is the national fruit, which represents the climatic condition of India.
The country’s national song and anthem would draw inspiration for the freedom struggle that the country fought to get independence from the British rule. The national emblem where the four lions are standing back to back would represent the power, courage, pride, and confidence. The national game hockey is at its peak, and everyone loves this game in the country.
How many national symbols of India are there?
The Republic of India has 17 national symbols. These symbols will depict the national identity and culture of India. Whenever people see these symbols, it reminds of India and the meaning of the symbol. There is a lot of pride that is filled in the heart of India by seeing the symbols. It evokes patriotism in everyone’s heart.
The significance of the Indian national symbols includes:
- Rich cultural fiber that is in the heart of the country
- Sense of pride in the heart of every citizen in the country
- Depict the unique qualities of Indian
- Delicious India cuisine which is loved by people globally
- Preserve the national symbol that passes this from one generation to another generation
Ancient Indian Symbols
The ancient symbols represent the philosophies, teachings, Hindu gods, and goddesses. The National symbols of India’s images would have some hidden beliefs about the cosmos and mysteries that happened in the past, which may occur in the future. Here is the list of ancient Indian symbols and meanings.
Kalachakra (Wheel of time)
It is the wheel of time and mostly used in Buddhism to represent the teachings of Buddha. It is the symbol of the creation of the world.
There are a total of eight spokes that you find in the Kalachakra, which would illustrate the direction of time. Each direction has a ruler, and there is a unique quality.
The powerful symbol will promote healing and peace in the world. The beautiful pattern is tough to understand but has a lot of hidden meaning in it.
OM
It is the ancient Indian symbols, and their meaning gives the actual reality of the universe. It is the symbol of ancient times used by Hindus. When it was first created, it has three letters, AUM. The sound of this word would spread out to the whole universe.
It is the mantra for the high power and is the blend of many Syllables in Sanskrit. Everyone will use OM in the prayers and recite loudly. The meaning of the mantra is MA means the soul, and TRA means protection or the lead.
Out of all the Mantras, OM is the critical one. It represents three crucial aspects of Gods, A (The Brahma), U (The Vishnu), and M is (the Shiva). It is the symbol used in Tantra Yoga and Ashtanga yoga.
Ganesha
He is the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is another ancient symbol which is considered as the Elephant God by Hindus. He is power in every human being and is the God who helps you to get rid of obstacles and drive you towards Dharma.
He is the Lord of schools and scribes and has also fought many demons and negative forces. Ganesha helps you to take a smooth path without any obstacles on your way. Everyone bestows the blessings of this God in every work you do, to attain success.
Banyan tree
You can find this tree in every temple. It is divine and sacred that lasts longer and is fertile. Devotees worship Braham in this form. The Lord Vishnu is found to be in the bark of the tree. It is also known to be the tree of all the three Gods.
The Brahma would live in the roots and Shiva in branches. The origins of the tree would grow in different directions, which can survive longer and even for centuries. Many saints are enlightened by sitting under this tree. This tree is immoral in scriptures.
Sri Chakra
It is the sacred geometry used for devotion, mediation, and worship from thousands of years. Nine interlocking triangles would have a central point. The four upright triangles would depict the masculine side, and the five inverted triangles would represent the feminine, which is Shakti.
These nine interlocking triangles will have 40 small triangles. This is the home for each deity, which has a specific reason for existence.
The Sri Yantra would depict Mount Meru, which is known to be the Cosmic Mountain and is the center of the universe. It is also a place where everything becomes one in the world.
Swastika
It is one of the ancient symbols in India and is also scared of Hindus. The four directions of the Swastika would represent four points of a compass. It relates to life, peace, and good luck and revolves around the sun and fire.
You can find this symbol in the rock and cave paintings in India. The emblem would also represent purity, stability, honesty, and truth. It is the mark that one would draw on the new homes and new account books.
The merchant mark
The East India Company did not trade much in East Indian but dealt with the Indian sub-continent and China in different commodities such as salt, tea, dye, opium, silk, and cotton. The government has no share in the East Indian Company and has very little control over its business operations.
The London trading in the East Indies has developed a series of symbols to showcase their identity.
They designed the Balemark, which allows one to identify the parcel when it arrives at the port and is sold on the trading floor.
The symbol has been evolving since the 1700s. It is in the heart shape and has the initial letters of the company.
The symbol is called the chop, which means stamp. It shows the products of the East Indian Company and is also a symbol of quality. It is one of the famous Indian signs and symbols.
The Coat of Arms
It is another symbol of the East Indian Company, which was designed under the guidance of Queen Elizabeth. It is the symbol of confidence and would represent the royal patronage.
Garuda
Garuda is the emblem that is chosen by the Gupta rulers. You can find this on the Dhwajas. It also shows that they are the followers of Lord Vishnu.
Besides, Garuda is the chariot of Lord Shiva. Later, Dhwaja has become the royal symbol that is put by the troop while battling.
Dhwajas and Patakas
These are the two symbols used by the Maurya dynasty in 322 BC, which originated from Magadha. The army used these symbols.
The Patakas are used in festoons. The Dhwajas are found on the chariots of the warriors.
Famous Indian symbols
National bird
Peacock is the national bird of India and is also its pride. The bird is declared the national bird of India in 1963 as it is a part of Indian culture.
The grace and beauty depict what the country is about. Another reason for choosing peacock as the national bird is to witness this bird in many places across India.
On top of it, many people are familiar with this bird. There is no other country that has peacock as their national bird. It met all the requirements and, therefore, is declared as the national bird.
National animal
Tiger is the Lord of the Jungle, and this showcases the wildlife treasure of the country. It has all the crucial aspects, such as strength and power.
The Bengal tiger is known as the country’s national animal in 1973 to protect tigers in India. Before this, Lion was the national animal of the country.
National anthem
Rabindranath Tagore composed the national anthem in the Bengali language on January 24, 1950. However, this song has received a massive backlash from the other non-Hindu communities. Yet, finally, Jana Gana Mana is embraced as the national anthem.
Lotus, the national flower
The lotus flower has a significant impact on Hindu mythology and is the symbol of the goddess Laxmi. It also represents wealth and prosperity. The best thing is that this flower would grow in the murky water with the long stalk beyond the water, and the flower would be on the top
The lotus is known for its purity, and despite staying in the impure water, it remains pure. It is the symbol of fate, purity, and achievement and is the National flower of India.
National fruit
Mangoes are the national fruit of India. There are many places where this fruit is cultivated across India. Many poets in ancient times described the deliciousness of this fruit in their poetry. Indeed, the Mughal emperor Akbar has planted around 1,000,000 mango trees in the country and near Lakhi Bagh.
National song
Bankimchandra Chatterjee writes the national song of the country. The writing of the song is inspired by many of the freedom fighters who fought for the country. It has become the national anthem of India, i.e., Vande Mataram.
However, there is a lot of backlashes that are received from the non-Hindu community in India. The communities were in the assumption that Durga Maa in the song would represent the whole nation. Due to this reason, it is made as to the national song rather than the national Anthem.
National flag
The national flag is rectangular and has three colors: deep saffron, white, and green with the Ashoka Chakra, a wheel. The same was announced as the National flag on July 22, 1947, due to the assembly meeting. It is the tricolor flag, which was designed by Pingali Venkayya. It is hoisted on Independence and Republic days. These are also the India holidays.
National gane
The national game of India is hockey, and is quite popular in the country. It is the national game that is played globally. The game has huge popularity in the country and was played from 1928 to 1956.
This period is the golden era for this game. There is no distinction in the talent, so it is named the country’s national game. India has played hockey 24 times in the Olympics and won all of these games.
National tree
The Banyan tree, which was already mentioned in this article, is the country’s national tree, and its branches are spread across neatly. Its branches and roots would represent the unity of the country. It is a massive structure and has roots across.
Another name, i.e., Kalpavriksha, also call it. It is the tree that fulfills all your wishes. The tree has rich medical value and will stay for a longer period.
The tree also gives shelter to many animals and birds. It also represents different religions, castes, and races in the country.
National Emblem
The capital of Ashoka is made as to the National Emblem of the country. Four lions are standing back to back in a circular manner. The abacus is etched with the Elephant, horse, bull, and a lion. The wheels segregate these all. It stands on the inverted lotus flower that is bloomed.
National river
The national river of India is Ganga. It is considered the sacred river on the planet, and that is in India by Hindus. Many rituals are performed on the banks of this river. India’s famous cities, such as Allahabad, Varanasi, and Hardiwar, have this river flowing over 2510 km of mountains, valleys, and plains. It is also known as the longest river in the country.
National currency
The India rupee is the national currency of India. The flow of the currency is governed and controlled by the Reserve Bank of India. The symbol of Rupee is derived from the Devanagari consonant. The Rupee got its name after the silver one called rupiya. This is made under the rule of the Sultan Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, and the Mughal Empire follows the same.
National Heritage animal
The national heritage animal of India is an Elephant. The Elephant sub-species in the Asian region are listed as an endangered animal by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. You can spot this animal in four different areas of the country.
National Aquatic animal
The national aquatic animal is Dolphin that is known as the Ganges River Dolphin. It is found living in the Ganges, Meghna, and Brahmaputra. You can also spot this aqua animal in Sangu and Kamaphuli of India. The Dolphin is blind and would live only in the freshwaters.
National Reptile
The national reptile of the country is King Cobra, which is of length 18.5 to 18.8 feet. You can find this poisonous snake in the forest areas of Southeast Asia. It feeds on lizards, snakes, and rodents. However, it is considered sacred by Hindus. You can find Indian national symbols images with ease online.
India religion symbols
Om
OM is the symbol of Hinduism. It is made using the Sanskrit letters, a, u, and m. These all letters come together to make the sound of OM, which is infinite. The music would represent all the three Gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
These would, in turn, represent heaven, earth, and the other critical traits. It is the word that is used by many Hindus while offering prayers. They also use this in every task or every task or their journey. It is also an Asian craft.
The Khanda
It is the symbol used by Sikhism. It is known as a coat of arms. Three critical components are used to represent the concept of Sikhism. The double-edged sword in the symbol would represent the divine knowledge that would separate trust from the false.
The Khanda is in the form of a circle with no beginning and end, symbolizing God. The two curvy swords are known as Kirpans, representing the two concepts of Meeri and Peeri that are introduced by Guru Hargobind.
The cross
It is the symbol of Christianity, and it indicates salvation. The cross would remind everyone of the resurrection and on which Jesus is nailed. It tells all of the sacrifice made by Jesus.
Allah
It is the symbol in Islam, which visually represents Islam, which is Allah’s sacred name in the Arabic script. Allah is God in Arabic.
Indian cultural symbols
Many sacred symbols have a lot of hidden meaning in India. These symbols took birth from Hindu philosophy, Vedas, and epics. It is also the epitome of Indian culture. The symbols have remained the same for years together. You can find the Indian national symbols pictures online.
Om
OM is sacred and is the gateway for all religions and scriptures. Everyone would utter the sound Om, which is the sound through which the universe is born. When you chant this word, it gives immense power and quivering sensation from within. It is used in Yoga to reap Yoga benefits.
Swastika
It is the religious symbol in India that has four legs bent at the 90-degree angle. It is the auspicious symbol that is used in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. It is born from the Sanskrit word lucky and auspicious.
Mudra
It is a non-verbal type of communication and a way to express oneself with the figures’ hand gestures and postures. The gestures are widely used in Buddhist sculptures and paintings. These are used by the monks while carrying out the meditation rituals and concentration, and it is considered the force that would evoke the deity.
Rudraksha Mala
It is the sacred beads that Hindus uses, and the meaning of the word Rudra in Sanskrit is fearsome, and Aksha is teardrops. The trees from which these beads are produced are found in the Himalayan region and the coastal areas. These are in spherical shapes and have many faces.
Trishul
It is the weapon of Lord Shiva and has three spears. It is a weapon that is made using iron or brass. The outer spears are curvy, and the middle one is sharp and longer than the other two. Trishul is one of the Buddhist symbols.
Lamp
Deepam or oil lamps made of clay or metal will have a cotton wick that is dipped in the oil. The Jain, Hindus, Sikh, and Zoroastrians would light diyas during the festivals and ceremonies.
India site symbols
There are many Indian iconic symbols that you find in this majestic country in every nook and cranny. The ancient structure and monuments are India’s pride and depict its strength, battles, and bravery. When you see India through the eye of a foreigner, it makes you feel nostalgic.
Taj Mahal
It is the historical site symbol of India and is the epitome of love. There is a lot of history behind the construction behind this wonder. The marble structure was constructed way back in 1632 by Shah Jahan for his late wife, Mumtaz. It is the best place to travel to India.
Agra fort
It is another India site symbol that explains the rich history of the Mughal dynasty. It is built with the red sandstone in 1565 by Akbar, and today is one of the prominent tourist and historical places in the country. There are many palaces, mosques, and courts in this fort. You must travel to India to visit this beautiful place with a great history.
Red fort
It is constructed for around ten years and is one of the Indian site symbols. The construction was done from 1638 to 1648. Shah Jahan also constructs it. The octagonal fort is the place where the President would give a speech on every Independence Day.
Qutub Minar
It is the first Muslim Kingdom in North India and is the best symbol of Indo-Muslim architecture made of red sandstone. There are verses from the Quran on this Minar, and it would be in Arabic and Nagari. You must travel to India to witness the beauty of this place.
India political party symbols
There are many political parties in India. Each party has a logo that represents their values and origin.
The Indian election symbols and parties’ names would base on their objective criteria. It also helps the voter identify the party to which they can vote on the Electronic voting machine.
India flag symbol
Every country has its national flag, which signifies that it is a free country.
Colors of the flag
The national flag has three colors, while the top band of the flag is saffron, which would represent the strength and courage. The middle group is white, representing peace and truth, and the last band has a green color, which would symbolize fertility, auspiciousness, and growth.
Chakra
The wheel of the law is made in the 3rd century by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The Chakra will clearly state that there is life in the movement of the wheel and death resembles stagnation
India Animal symbols
Cow
It is considered to be sacred, and Hindus worship the cow. This animal is hugely respected in the country and is considered as the Bhoomi, the Hindu goddess. The cow would represent the earth. Many respect these animals for the kind nature and strength. It is one of the Hindu symbols.
Tiger
The Bengal tiger is the national animal of India. It is the most famous and widely found cat species in the country. These can kill animals with their powerful paws and are known for their strength and courage.
Birds
There are different species of birds you can see in India. Many are Indian roller, stunning little birds, which are a part of the roller family. You can also find owls, woodpeckers, and water birds.
Elephants
The elephants in Asian are in different sizes compared to the ones in the African countries. You can spot the elephants in the Corbett national park.
India vegetation symbols
The Indian vegetation has flowers, fruits, and vegetables. When it comes to the flowers, it has religious significance. The popular flowers in India include:
Plumeria
It is the flowering plant that you can find in India and used for worship.
India Lotus
India’s national flower is grown in the murky water and is also the state flower of many states in India. One can use this flower for ornamental and medicinal purposes.
Hibiscus
It is the edible flowering plant that is used for worship in the Indian temples. It is grown in different colors.
India fruits symbols
India is the second-largest producer of fruits globally. There are a wide variety of fruits grown in different parts of India.
Nagpur Orange
These oranges are widely grown in Nagpur and twice every year. The harvesting is done in December.
Nanjanagud Banana
It is grown in Karnataka and is known for its aroma and taste.
Ratnagiri Alphonso mango
India’s national fruit is mango, and it is one of the varieties that is grown in India in various districts of Maharashtra.
India vegetable symbols
Pumpkin
The pumpkin is the national vegetable of India that is used to prepare savory and sweet dishes. It is suitable for health and heart. The popular dish that is made in India with this vegetable is Petha.
Brinjal/Baingan
It is the fiber-rich vegetable that is widely had in India, and there are different varieties of dishes prepared with it. It is available in various sizes and colors.
Onion
It is the root vegetable with white layers and will be in white, red, and yellow. People eat it raw or are cooked and made into several dishes.
India warriors
India is known for its courage and strength when it comes to fighting with the enemies. Many great rulers made our head high in front of others. Many kingdoms have ruled different parts of India and introduced the best administrative system, tax system, and other innovative things. It is the Ancient history of India.
Chandragupta Maurya
He is the founder of the Maurya dynasty and is known to be the greatest warrior. Chandragupta Maurya ruled from 340 BC to 298 BC. He is a famous warrior in India. The man successfully conquered many subcontinents in India, except the Tamil regions and the latest state Odisha. He ruled Bengal to Afghanistan to Himalayas and Kashmir and also the Deccan Plateau.
Shivaji
He is the great warrior, and when one thinks of a warrior, the first name strikes for everyone are Shivaji. Shivaji successfully implemented civil rule with the help of the military, and his administration department is well-organized. He is powerful and has defeated many larger kingdoms and powerful enemies. He is the inspiration to the Indian military.
Maharana Pratap
He is the Mewar Kingdom ruler, who fought many wars and conquered the powerful Kingdoms in the country. Every time Akbar sends people for the diplomatic alliance, he never accepted the suzerainty of Akbar.
Prithvi Raj Chauhan
He is known to be the greatest warrior of India and so the world. He took over the throne at the age of 13 in Ajmer in 1179 after this father’s death in a battle. After knowing Prithvi’s courage and bravery, his grandfather, who was the ruler of Delhi, declared him the King of Ajmer.
India wedding symbols
Different symbols are used at the wedding, starting from the wedding card to the bride, who will adorn different things after getting married.
Lord Ganesha
The symbol is printed on the wedding card, which symbolizes happiness and prosperity. God is known to be the head of knowledge, wealth, and education.
He will remove all the obstructions that one would experience on occasion, even on Diwali.
Mangal Ghat
The symbol represents purity and sanctity. It has a water pot that is covered with the coconut upside down with mango leaves. It indicates a good omen.
Doli
The pallbearers would carry the Doli on the shoulders. It indicates harmony and would represent the sacred style of the Indian wedding.
Jaimala
It is the garland ceremony that is celebrated in the Hindu culture. It gives a grand welcome for the new couple to the new life.
India death symbols
Death is the end of one’s life. There are different traditions followed in every culture. The symbols of death include skull, tombstones, grave, and coffin.
If some family member dies, Christians will use the cross symbol on the grave; it reminds of Jesus’ crucifixion. In Buddhism, the wheel symbol would represent the death and rebirth in the Samsara. You can find the symbols of India pictures of death online.
India currency symbols
The symbol of the Indian currency is Rupee. It is internationally recognized to carry out the money transactions and holds economic strength. The emblem is the blend of Devanagari Ra and Roman Capital R with two horizontal and vertical stripes representing the national flag and the equal sign. The Indian government embraced this sign on July 15, 2010. Udaya Kumar designs it.
India sport symbols
Hockey is the national sport of the country. Cricket is another game everyone will play in their streets, ground, and stadiums in the country. More than hockey, people show interest in watching cricket matches.
Indian symbols for peace
From the ancient to the modern times, a white dove is used as a symbol of peace. In India, people will fly the dove to represent that they want peace in the country. The dove symbol is thought to be the symbols for protection and peace
Indian Symbols for love
These are the symbols for India used for love.
Taj Mahal
It is considered as the symbol of Love in India. Shah Jahan constructs it for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. It has gained the privilege of the international emblem of love. It is a glorious monument representing how the king has kept the promise made to the queen for a lifetime.
Jasmine
The aroma produced by these beautiful flowers is considered to be the Hindu symbol of love. It is believed to be originated in the Himalayas and is sacred. Many Hindu goddesses would adorn this garland where the white petals would signify the purity.
Cupid
The young boy holding the bow with an arrow is used to pierce the heart of the people so that they fall in deep love. It is used as a symbol of love.
India symbols of good luck
Every culture has a different good luck charm. Few charms are lucky and bring a lot o good fortune for them. There are animals to buttons and coins being used as good luck symbols of India images.
Sparrow
When a sparrow builds a nest in the home, it gives a sign of good fortune. You do not have to worry about the clutter created by the sparrow as it will bring you a lot of luck.
Elephant
There is a belief that if you spot the Elephant when you are on a journey, it will bring you a lot of success. Many people consider the Elephant to be the Hindu deity, Ganesha. The symbol of the Elephant is intelligence, strength, and solitude.
Shooting star
When you see a shooting star, you can wish for something, and it is going to fulfill for sure. Shooting stars indicate that Gods are paying attention to hear your wishes.
Four Leaf Clovers
The four-leaf clovers are rare to find, and it brings a lot of luck to the people. You can do this Handcrafted mandala in your free time
Laughing Buddha
The laughing is a belief that brings Good luck at home. It also relieves you from the stress in relationships and promotes professional growth.
India all state symbols
Andhra Pradesh
- Blackbuck
- Indian Roller
- Neem
- Water lily
Arunachal Pradesh
- Mithun
- Great Hornbill
- Hollong
- Foxtail Orchid
Assam
- Indian One-horned Rhino
- White-winged Wood Duck
- Hollong
- Foxtail Orchid
Bihar
- Gaur
- Indian Roller
- Peepal
- Kachnar
Chhattisgarh
- Wild Buffalo
- Hill Myna
- Sal
- Indian Laurel
Delhi
- Nilgai
- House sparrow
- Gulmohar
- Alfalafa
Goa
- Gaur
- Black Crested Bulbul
- Matti
- Plumeria Rubra
Gujarat
Asiatic Lion
Greater Flamingo
Banyan
Marigold (Galgota)
Kerala
- Elephant
- Great Hornbill
- Coconut
- Kanikonna/Golden Shower Tree
Maharashtra
- Giant Squirrel
- Green Imperial Pigeon
- Mango
- Jarul
Punjab
- Blackbuck
- Northern Goshawk
- Sheesham
- Gladious
Rajasthan
- Chinkara
- Indian Bustard
- Khejri
- Rohira
Tamil Nadu
- NilgiriTahr
- Emerald Dove
- Palmyra Palm
- Kandhal
Telangana
- Spotted Deer
- Indian Roller
- Shami
- Tanner’s Cassia
West Bengal
- Fishing cat
- White-throated King Fisher
- Devil’s Tree
- Shephali
Uttar Pradesh
- Swamp Deer
- Sarus Crane
- Ashok
- Brahm Kamal
Indian alphabet symbols
Devanagari is the alphabet name and is used in Hindi, Sanskrit, and other languages in India. The Devanagari is pronounced as ‘Dave a nuggery.’ It is the most common language from which many other languages have originated. The letters are round and squared over being rectangular.
Gurumukhi
It is the alphabet that is used by Punjabis. It looks similar to Devanagari, but there are a few letters that would look like mechanical claws.
Assamese and Bengali
These languages will have the letters that would point towards the left and would have squiggles. The Assamese language has a triangle having a second line inside.
Gujarati
The script looks like the free flow of Devanagari but does not have a cross line on the top. The hook would flow like a letter G on the top with an upside-down letter J.
Malayalam
This language has a lot of circles. It is the south Indian language that looks like the Latin alphabet. Many letters would be symmetrical in shape with lots of loops and bumps.
Kannada
The symbol ಠ is like the letter T. many other letters would have an eyebrow on the top.
Odia
It is the script language with letters like balloons, and some would be in the shape of m.
Tamil
The letters would be in the box shape and have loops. Many letters look like they have a T letter in them.
Telugu
There are echoes on each letter, and there is a curved line right to the curved letter.
Indian symbols tattoo
The most widely tattooed symbols in India include:
- Ohm
- Sri Yantra
- Henna
- Lord Shiva
- Ganesha
- Lotus flower
- Hamsa
- Mandala
- Unalome
- Elephant
- Tribal design
- American Indian warrior
- Peacock feather
- Feathers with birds
- Floral
- Feathers
- Flag
- God
- Gautama Buddha
- Trishul of Shiva
