India At 79: Why Are There 24 Spokes On The Ashoka Chakra? What Do They Signify?

As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day, every element of the tricolour takes on deeper meaning, including the navy-blue Ashoka Chakra at its centre. Set against the white band, the 24-spoked wheel is more than a design; it represents the "Dharmachakra" or the wheel of duty, inspiring citizens to strive tirelessly for a better nation.

About Ashoka Chakra

The Ashoka Chakra, featured at the heart of India’s national flag, draws inspiration from the Ashoka Wheel of the Sarnath Lion Capital, which is now the country’s national emblem. Officially adopted on July 22, 1947, it is far more than a decorative element, it symbolises India’s ideals and guiding principles.

The Dharmachakra replaced the spinning wheel (charkha) in the Tricolour after independence. While the charkha symbolised self-reliance and resistance to colonial rule, the chakra represents dynamism and the idea that stagnation leads to decline.

Here’s what each of the 24 spokes stands for:

The 24 equally spaced spokes of the Ashoka Chakra represent 24 virtues, each standing for values such as righteousness, justice, integrity, and good governance, reflecting the moral and ethical framework envisioned for the nation.

Hope

Love

Courage

Patience

Peacefulness

Goodness

Faithfulness

Gentleness

Kindness

Selflessness

Self-control

Self-sacrifice

Truth

Righteousness

Justice

Mercy

Graciousness

Humility

Empathy

Sympathy

Knowledge

Wisdom

Moral Values

Altruism

The 24 spokes of the Ashoka Chakra carry deep symbolism. In Hindu tradition, they are linked to the 24 Rishis who preserved spiritual wisdom, as well as the 24 letters of the Gayatri Mantra. They can also represent the 24 hours in a day, reminding us that life is about constant motion and progress.

Together with the flag’s colours, saffron for courage and sacrifice, white for peace and truth, and green for prosperity and growth, the navy-blue Ashoka Chakra unites these ideals, embodying timeless values and the forward-moving spirit of the nation.