National Treasure at Fort St. George Museum, Chennai

Source- This post on National Treasure at Fort St. George Museum, Chennai has been created based on the article “NATIONAL TREASURE AT FORT ST. GEORGE MUSEUM, CHENNAI” published in “PIB” on 13 August 2024.

Why in News?

As India prepares to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15th. So, the Fort St. George Museum in Chennai proudly displays India’s national treasure, which is one of the first flags hoisted on August 15, 1947, and the only surviving flag from that momentous day.

About the Historic Flag at Fort St. George Museum

1. This historic flag measures 12 feet in length and 8 feet in width, which is one of the first flags hoisted on August 15, 1947.

2. This flag serves as a significant symbol of India’s struggle for independence and the moment of its victory.

3. It was crafted from pure silk.

4. It was ceremonially hoisted at 5:30 AM on August 15, 1947, at Fort St. George in Chennai.

About Fort St. George Museum

1. The Fort St. George Museum is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

2. The city of Chennai originated from the British settlement at Fort St. George, which expanded by merging several native villages and European settlements, eventually forming the city of Madras.

3. The concept of creating a museum to preserve colonial-era relics was proposed in 1946 by Col. D.M. Reid of the Madras Guards.

4. The museum was officially opened to the public on January 31, 1948.

5. The museum features over 3,500 colonial-era artifacts, displayed across nine galleries that showcase the history of the Raj and the fort.

6. The Indian Independence Gallery within the museum highlights the evolution of the Indian flag, narrating the stories and significance behind the Tiranga (Tricolor).

UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture