We are in the eve of the 75th Independence Day and looking forward to witnessing the proud moment the tricolour flag is hoisted on 15th August.

So, here are some facts about flag ‘hoisting’ or is it ‘unfurling’?

Other than the difference in the purpose of celebrating the Independence Day and Republic Day, there is also a difference in the way the Indian National flag is hoisted on 15th August and 26th January.

Hoisting or Unfurling
To begin with on the occasion of the Independence Day, ie, the 15th of August, the flag is pulled up by a rope from below, then it is opened and hoisted. This is done to honor the historical event of 15 August 1947. In the constitution, this is termed as 'Flag Hoisting'.

On the other hand, on Republic Day, the 26th of January, the flag that remains atop the flagpole, is just opened or unfurled and hoisted. In the constitution, this is termed 'Flag Unfurling'.

Prime Minister or President
On August 15th, it is the Prime Minister, the head of the Central Government, who hoists the flag. This is because the Constitution of India did not come into force on the day India of independence. The President, who is the constitutional head of the nation, did not assume office then.

On the other hand, on Republic Day, the President addresses the nation. 26th January is celebrated to commemorate the implementation of the Constitution in the country. Hence, on this day, it is the constitutional head, the President who hoists the flag.

Venue
On Independence Day, the flag hoisting is done from the Red Fort.

At the same time, on Republic Day the flag is unfurled in the Rajpath.

So, lets hoist the flags tomorrow, and unfurl it on Republic Day.

Happy 75th Independence Day !!!