Source: HT
Context: Nearly 50 people were detained in Srinagar after a plaque bearing the national emblem was vandalised and removed inside the Hazratbal shrine.
About State Emblem of India:
What it is?
- The State Emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath.
- Adopted officially on 26 January 1950, the day India became a Republic.
- It symbolises India’s sovereignty, authority, and values of truth and justice.
Origin:
- The original Lion Capital was erected by Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE) at Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
- It formed part of Ashoka’s pillars, spreading the message of Dhamma (righteousness).
- Discovered in 1905 and preserved at the Sarnath Museum, Uttar Pradesh.
Features:
- Four Asiatic Lions: Standing back-to-back, symbolising power, courage, pride, and confidence.
- Abacus Frieze: Carved with high-relief sculptures of an elephant, horse, bull, and lion, separated by Dharma Chakras (wheels of law).
- Lotus Base: The original had a bell-shaped lotus, omitted in the official emblem.
- Adopted Emblem: Shows three lions visible, Dharma Chakra at centre, bull on right, galloping horse on left, with outlines of wheels at the ends.
- Motto: “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs), inscribed below in Devanagari script.
