“A nation’s national symbols are a visual, verbal, and iconic representation of its unique identity; hence it consists of a host of carefully chosen objects that define the country’s sensibilities.”
Shaili, writer at FirstCry
From childhood, we are told that education is the one thing in life that no one can rob us of. Believe it or not, it plays a crucial role in uplifting the economy and initiating the wheels of progress and change. In India, education is prized as one’s ultimate goal in attaining a stable and profitable job. While Indian parents want their kids to focus on education, they also want them to cherish the customs, traditions, beliefs, art forms and cultural heritage of the country.
Did you know the importance of national symbols of India?
This is easily achievable in adolescents, but how can the same be applied to your little ones? The answer to this is simple. Preschoolers can learn about the cultural heritage of India through its national emblems. Colourful and attractive pictures of the national emblems can be shown to little ones to help them gain an understanding of the history of the country and to instill a sense of patriotism in them. This, in turn, will make them respect the country and protect it for future generations.
What is a National Symbol?
Every country has its unique symbols that represent its customs, ideology, lifestyle, traditions and heritage. These symbols are meaningful and learning about them brings about a sense of pride for one’s own country. These symbols leave an indelible mark in the minds of little ones and help them learn about the history of the country to which they belong.
Importance of National Symbols
Apart from the fact that these symbols teach children about the history and cultural heritage of a country, they give them a sense of belonging. As one grows up, one tends to face what is known as an identity crisis. This crisis stems from a feeling of not belonging. Teaching kids about the national symbols of India with their names helps create a sense of national identity. Throughout childhood, a kid may not realise this, but as one grows up, one will start to understand the importance of knowing the national symbols of India with their names. The onus falls on the parents as it is their responsibility to ensure that their little ones learn about the national symbols of India.
List of National Symbols of India
Details About National Symbols of India
1. National Emblem
Does your child know the significance of the emblem of India?
This is one of the most important national symbols of India for kids to know. The Lion Capital of India at Sarnath is regarded as the national emblem of India. As the name implies, four lions can be seen with their backs facing each other on a circular abacus. The intricate designs on the abacus, of a lion, horse, bull and elephant are truly noteworthy. The Lion Capital is most commonly viewed as a statue that represents courage and power.
2. National Anthem
The national anthem of India bears the title of ‘Jana Gana Mana’ and was composed in 1911 during India’s struggle for Independence. It was written by the poet laureate, Rabindranath Tagore and was officially declared as the national anthem of India in 1950. The anthem has continued to instil a sense of awakening, pride and courage in the hearts of all Indians ever since. Teaching this to your young ones will not only teach them about India’s struggle for Independence but also instil a sense of patriotism. It is also one of the significant national things of India.
3. National Flower
The lotus, with its plethora of significance, rightly takes its place as the national flower of India. While the flower is known for its beauty, its association with Hindu mythology is where it gains its significance. The lotus is associated with the goddess Laxmi and represents prosperity, wealth, happiness and fertility. The white lotus is one of the most revered national symbols.
4. National Bird
While India is home to many beautiful and exotic birds, the peacock has been officially declared the national bird of India. This is primarily because of its association with Indian customs and culture. The peacock is famously known for its grace, just like India with its cultural heritage and traditions.
5. National Animal
The Bengal Tiger, also known as the Lord of the Jungle is India’s national animal. The Bengal Tiger is known for its royalty, agility and strength. The announcement of the Bengal Tiger as the national animal of India was followed by the initiation of many projects to save tigers from extinction.
6. National Flag
The tri-coloured flag of India, with stripes of saffron, white and green has become iconic all over the world. At its centre is the Ashoka chakra which bears resemblance to the spinning wheel. The spinning wheel or Ashola chakra represents the continuity of life, that life is an ongoing process that never ends. The Indian flag is hoisted and displayed at important celebrations like Republic Day and Independence Day. It is also one of the noteworthy national things of India.
How many of the national symbols names did your kid know about?
7. National Fruit
Mango is the national fruit of the country as it best represents India’s culture. The fruit is native to the country and is widely found there. Did you know that Akbar, who reigned in India, was obsessed with eating mangoes? The tradition of growing and eating mangoes dates back several centuries in India.
8. National Tree
The banyan tree is considered to be the national tree of India. One of the key features of the banyan tree as a national symbol of India is its expanding branches and great roots that are embedded deep into the ground. It has become a symbol of eternal life as it withstands the test of time from century to century.
9. National River
The Ganga happens to not only be the national river of India but it is also regarded as the holiest river in the world by the Hindus. People come from all corners of India to pay tribute, respect and perform rituals on the banks of the river Ganga.
10. National Sport
While many may be of the opinion that Cricket is the national sport of India, it isn’t. Hockey happens to be the national sport of India. The game was chosen as the national sport at a time when it was extremely popular, between 1928 and 1956. Believe it or not, India won six consecutive gold medals at the Olympic Games during those years. Here is the list of 11 national things of India. Therefore, the importance of national symbols of India that act as powerful representations of unity in diversity.
Conclusion
National symbols indicate the integrity and unique identity of our country, India also known as Bharat. Further, national symbols also show how our country stands out from the rest. Therefore, teaching about national symbols for kids can create cultural awareness and understanding of the Nation. Engage your child and make them feel proud of the great culture they belong to!
EuroKids is more than just a preschool with experts to educate children. It focuses on developing the overall skills, habits and behaviour of your little ones. In addition to this, EuroKids also imparts knowledge to your kids on the national symbols of India and why they are so significant in protecting our national identity. If you want your kids to receive the best when it comes to care and holistic development, visit our blog or better yet, visit us at the closest centre to you.
