Tamil Nadu flag-makers report good business ahead of Independence Day

Chennai, Aug. 12 (ANI): Flag makers in Tirpur, the hosiery hub of Tamil Nadu, are doing a brisk business ahead of the 62nd anniversary of Independence Day.

Traders say that there has been increased public participation in the Independence Day celebrations as evident from the growing demand from local clubs, private and public institutions for national flags.

"For the past 35 years, we have been into the business of flag making. For each Independence Day, we receive huge orders from all across the country. 80 percent of our order is for cotton made flags. Besides this, we also make flags made from polyester cloth, small flags, badges and caps," said Manikandan, a trader.

In fact, the making of national flags has enabled hundreds of people with employment.

The workers engaged in flag-making said they are proud of their work, and it is not monetary gain that they are working for.

"I am doing this national flag stitching work for the past 28 years, and I love to do this work. This gives us a mental satisfaction and peace...I will stick to this profession till my death," noted Umarani, a tailor.

Flags are made in different sizes but the standard size is 8 by 12 feet, which is hoisted atop President's house and other official buildings.

The national flag is a horizontal tri-colour of saffron, white and green. The wheel in its centre is a replica, which appears on the abacus of pillars erected in 3rd century BC by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka at Saranath.

The flag was adopted on July 22, 1947 (ANI)