Nepal

Information about the Nepali Flag: Colors and Meaning of the Flag of Nepal

:: Meaning of the Nepali Flag ::

The flag of Nepal is very distinct and unique, since it is not the standard square or rectangle like most flags. The flag consists of two triangular flags placed one on top of the other and is believed to originate in late 19th century, from an earlier version of two individual pennants used several centuries ago. It is a simplified combination of two pennants, borrowed from the original design that had been in use for over 2,000 years. The new national flag was adopted on December 12, 1962 when Nepal formed a new constitutional government. Prior to the new simplified design, the sun and the crescent moon on the flag had human faces, which remained on the Royal Standard until the monarchy was abolished in 2008.

Colors
The national flag of Nepal uses crimson red with a blue border, Nepal’s traditional colors. The crescent moon and the sun over the crimson red background are white. It was said that these two celestial bodies signify that Nepal hopes that the nation will last as long as the sun and moon exist, or a symbol of permanence.

Meaning
There are several meanings connected to the colors and design of the flag of Nepal. Crimson red is a traditional color in the country and is also the color of its national flower, the rhododendron as well as a sign of victory in war, symbolizing the bravery of the Nepalese since the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Blue is for peace, symbolizing the peace and harmony of the country since the age of Gautama Buddha.

The two conjoined pennants represent the Himalayan mountains and Buddhism and Hinduism, which are the two main religions in Nepal. While the moon symbolizes the soothing and calm nature of the people while the sun symbolizes their fierce resolve, the crescent moon is also the symbol of the royal house while the Rana dynasty is represented by the sun. The celestial bodies are also interpreted to mean that the shade and cool weather prevailing in the Himalayas is represented by the moon while the sun symbolizes the high temperature and heat over the foothills of the Himalayas in Terai.