Ashoka Chakra – Symbolic History
The Ashoka Chakra proposed by B.R. Ambedkar was to pay tribute to the Buddhist emperor who had fought a war but later turned into a peacemaker, Ashoka. The chakra motif was based on an ancient ‘wheel of dharma’ symbol, which was prominent in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
Gautama Buddha attained Nirvana at Bodh Gaya. After that, he went to Sarnath. Here he encountered his five disciples, Assaji, Mahānāman, Kondañña, Bhaddiya, and Vappa, who had all abandoned him earlier. It was his first teaching of Dharma to them which gave origin to Dharmachakra;. This is the motif, which Ashoka not only decided to choose but also reflected on the top of his pillars.
In Buddhism, 24 spokes are the symbol of 12 causal links and Dependent Origination, which is taught by Buddha. They are presented in forward and then reverse order. The first 12 spokes show 12 stages of suffering. On the next 12 spokes, there is no law, no effect. This way, the alertness of mind arises, and the process of mental conditioning binds. This course is the termination of created life, and hence it is called nibbāna. It also pictures the “wheel of life”.
Ashok Chakra
Ashok Chakra: On India’s 77th Independence Day in 2024, the Ashoka Chakra on the Indian flag was shown in navy blue on a white background. This symbol has 24 spokes, representing the idea of every Indian working around the clock. Each spoke holds significance, reflecting our collective commitment to continuous effort and progress.
Through this article, let’s unravel the symbolism and historical background of Ashoka Chakra, a symbol that proudly adorns the flag of India.