The Fort St. George Museum in Chennai is home to a priceless national treasure—a 12 feet long and 8 feet wide flag that was hoisted on the dawn of Indian independence, August 15, 1947. This iconic flag, made of pure silk, is the only surviving flag of its kind still on display. Hoisted at 5:30 A.M. at Fort St. George, this flag stands as a powerful testament to the decades of struggle and sacrifice that led to India’s freedom.
The flag is part of the Indian Independence Gallery within the museum, which also showcases the evolution of the Indian national flag, offering visitors a deep dive into the history and stories behind the revered Tiranga. The gallery not only highlights the significance of the flag but also the broader narrative of India’s journey to independence.
Fort St. George, the British stronghold from which modern Chennai emerged, houses the museum that was officially opened to the public on January 31, 1948. The idea for the museum was proposed in 1946 by Colonel D.M. Reid of the old Madras Guards, with the aim of preserving relics of the British Raj found within the fort. Today, the museum boasts a collection of over 3,500 artifacts from the colonial period, with the finest pieces displayed across nine galleries.
Visitors to the museum can explore these galleries and gain insights into the historical significance of the fort and its evolution since its construction began in 1640. The Fort St. George Museum not only preserves the artifacts of the past but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of India’s fight for independence.
