The National Flag of Sri Lanka

The National Flag of Sri Lanka.

​The national flag of Sri Lanka, popularly known as the Lion Flag, is the primary symbol of our country's freedom and identity. It has a long history and was first hoisted on February 4, 1948, when Sri Lanka gained independence. The flag features a majestic golden lion holding a sword in its right paw on a maroon background. This lion represents the bravery of the nation, while the sword symbolizes sovereignty and justice.

​The design of the flag is rich with deep meanings and represents the unity of all communities. There are four bo leaves in the corners of the maroon area, representing the four virtues: Metta, Karuna, Muditha, and Upeksha. On the left side, there are two vertical stripes of orange and green. The orange stripe represents the Tamil community, and the green stripe represents the Muslim community. The entire flag is surrounded by a yellow border, which signifies the unity and harmony among all citizens of the country.

​As Sri Lankans, the national flag is a source of great pride for us. It is hoisted during the Independence Day celebrations, at schools, and during important state functions. Whenever the national flag is raised, we stand at attention to show our honor and respect. It reflects our rich culture and the strength of our people. We must always protect the dignity of our flag and feel proud to be Sri Lankans.