1. The spread of the nationalist movement led to the emergence of icons and symbols that helped in unifying people. 2. The tricolour flag was first designed during the Swadeshi Movement that took place in Bengal. It comprised of the three colours – red, green and yellow and eight lotuses – representing eight provinces of British India, and a crescent moon – representing Hindus and Muslims.

3. The flag, later designed by Gandhiji, was also a tricolour, consisting of red, green and white colours and a spinning wheel in the centre – representing the Gandhian idea of self-help. The act of carrying the tricolour during the marches was considered to be a symbol of defiance.

NOTE – The Swaraj Flag was designed to inspire and unite people under the common banner of freedom and independence during India’s struggle against British Rule. The icons and symbols, such as, the figures of Bharat Mata and the Swaraj Flag came to represent the feelings of nationalism.