Independence Day vs Republic Day: Do You Know The Difference Between Flag Hoisting And Flag Unfurling?

Published 12 August 2026 · india

News india Independence Day vs Republic Day: Do You Know The Difference Between Flag Hoisting And Flag Unfurling? Independence Day vs Republic Day: Do You

News india Independence Day vs Republic Day: Do You Know The Difference Between Flag Hoisting And Flag Unfurling? Independence Day vs Republic Day: Do You Know The Difference Between Flag Hoisting And Flag Unfurling? Published By, Last Updated: August 12, 2026, 13:37 IST Many Indians use the terms interchangeably, but the Tricolour is raised differently on August 15 and January 26. Here's why the distinction matters. Rapid Read On Independence Day, the Flag is tied in a folded position near the bottom of the flagpole. As part of the ceremony, the Prime Minister pulls the rope, raising the flag to the top before it is unfurled. This process is known as flag hoisting. (AFP File Photo) Every year, India celebrates two of its most important national festivals with great pride and patriotism — Independence Day on August 15 and Republic Day on January 26. On both occasions, the Tricolour takes centre stage, schools and government offices hold celebrations, and the national anthem echoes across the country. Most Indians casually say that the Flag is “hoisted" on both days. But did you know that the ceremony is actually different on each occasion? On August 15, the Prime Minister performs flag hoisting, while on January 26, the President performs flag unfurling. Though the difference may seem subtle, it reflects two defining moments in India’s history.

What Is Flag Hoisting? On Independence Day, the Flag is tied in a folded position near the bottom of the flagpole. As part of the ceremony, the Prime Minister pulls the rope, raising the flag to the top before it is unfurled. This process is known as flag hoisting. The ceremony symbolises India’s emergence as a free nation after nearly two centuries of British colonial rule. It marks the moment the country rose as an independent sovereign state on August 15, 1947. What Is Flag Unfurling? The ceremony on Republic Day is different. On January 26, the Flag is already positioned at the top of the flagpole before the ceremony begins. The President of India pulls the rope to unfurl the folded flag, allowing it to fly freely. This is known as flag unfurling. The symbolism here is equally significant. By January 26, 1950, India was already an independent country. The day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution, when India officially became a republic. Why Does The PM Hoist The Flag On Independence Day? The roles of the Prime Minister and the President are rooted in India’s constitutional history. When India became independent on August 15, 1947, the Constitution had not yet come into force. The country was led by the elected government headed by the Prime Minister.