Sri Lanka Flag Coloring Page Download
Sri Lanka Flag Description
The flag of Sri Lanka, also known as the Lion Flag or the Lion Flag of Sri Lanka, is a national symbol of the country. It features a golden lion holding a sword in its right paw on a maroon background. The lion is surrounded by four golden bo leaves, one in each corner of the flag. The maroon background represents the Sinhalese ethnicity, which is the majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, while the golden lion symbolizes bravery, strength, and sovereignty.
The flag has a long history that dates back to ancient times. The lion has been a prominent symbol in Sri Lankan history and culture for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the Sinhalese kingdom of Vijaya, which was established in 543 BCE. According to legend, Prince Vijaya, the founder of the kingdom, had a lion as his emblem. The lion symbolized his royal lineage and power.
Over the centuries, the lion emblem evolved and became associated with the ruling dynasties of Sri Lanka. It was prominently featured on the flags of various kingdoms and was considered a symbol of authority and sovereignty. The bo leaves, which are sacred in Buddhism, were added to the flag during the reign of King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE. The addition of the bo leaves represented the close association between Buddhism and the Sinhalese people.
During the colonial period, Sri Lanka was under the control of various European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The lion flag lost its prominence during this time, as the colonial powers imposed their own flags and symbols on the island. However, the lion emblem continued to be used by the Sinhalese people as a symbol of resistance and national identity.
After gaining independence from British rule in 1948, Sri Lanka adopted a new flag that incorporated the lion emblem. The current design of the flag was officially adopted on May 22, 1972, when Sri Lanka became a republic and changed its name from Ceylon to Sri Lanka. The lion flag has since remained the national flag of Sri Lanka, representing the unity, strength, and sovereignty of the country.
In conclusion, the flag of Sri Lanka is a symbol of national identity and pride. It features a golden lion on a maroon background, surrounded by four golden bo leaves. The flag has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and has been associated with the Sinhalese people and their struggle for independence. It continues to be a powerful symbol of unity and sovereignty for the people of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Colored Flag
