Part of: West Bengal Gk set 32

The national flag was hoisted for the first time in which city?

Category: West Bengal Gk

Hint: Consider the historical significance of the city in the context of India's struggle

Correct Answer: D) Calcutta

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The national flag of India, also known as the Tricolour or Tiranga, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the Indian independence movement. The flag was first hoisted in Calcutta (now known as Kolkata) on August 7, 1906, during the annual session of the Indian National Congress. This event marked a significant moment in the struggle for independence from British rule.

The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. The first hoisting of the national flag in Calcutta was a symbolic act that represented the aspirations of the Indian people for self-governance and freedom. The flag, which consists of three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, with a blue chakra (wheel) in the center, was designed to reflect the values and unity of the Indian people.

Calcutta, as the capital of British India until 1911, was a significant center for political and cultural activities. The city was home to many prominent leaders and intellectuals who were instrumental in the independence movement. The choice of Calcutta for the first hoisting of the national flag was not coincidental; it was a strategic decision to symbolize the unity and determination of the Indian people.

It is important to note that the flag hoisted in 1906 was not the final version of the national flag. The design of the flag evolved over time, with the final version being adopted on July 22, 1947, just before India gained independence on August 15, 1947. The flag that was first hoisted in Calcutta was a precursor to the final design, and it laid the foundation for the national symbol that represents India today.

Understanding the historical context of the first hoisting of the national flag in Calcutta is essential for comprehending the significance of the flag in the Indian independence movement. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of the Indian people in their quest for freedom and self-governance.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Delhi is not the correct answer because the first hoisting of the national flag did not occur in Delhi. Delhi became the capital of India after independence and is not associated with the first hoisting of the flag.
  • Option B: Bombay (now Mumbai) is not the correct answer. While Bombay was an important city during the independence movement, the first hoisting of the national flag did not take place there.
  • Option C: Lucknow is not the correct answer. Although Lucknow has historical significance, it is not the city where the national flag was first hoisted.
  • Option D: Calcutta (now Kolkata) is the correct answer. The national flag of India was first hoisted in Calcutta on August 7, 1906, during the annual session of the Indian National Congress.

Mnemonic: C for Calcutta, C for Country's first flag

Back to West Bengal Gk set 32 – Practice all questions