Table of Contents
What is the Karnataka State Flag?
Relevance of a state flag
Recognition of Karnataka State flag
Proposal to Adopt a New Design for Karnataka Flag
Where is the Karnataka Flag Used?
Conclusion
The flag is a symbolic representation of an object of reverence to which one swears allegiance. Every country has a national flag under which the citizens of that country unite. The tricolour, India’s national flag, symbolises the effort of our freedom fighters and hard-earned freedom. The Kannadigas of Karnataka identify with their state flag, which is a simple “yellow and red” colour flag. It is a representation of the shared history, culture, language and ethos of the people of the state.
Karnataka state flag is bicolour – ‘arishina’ (turmeric) and ‘kumkuma’ (Vermillion), which are auspicious colours according to Hindu traditions. These colours pay homage to the motherland and signify the reign of peace, unity and the Kannada identity of its people. The flag can be seen across the state and is specially unfurled on the day of Karnataka Rajyotsava on 1st November. This celebration marks the birth of the state of Karnataka, on 1st November 1956 through the merger of Kannada-speaking regions of South India.
Symbolism of Yellow and Red
The Karnataka flag consists of two horizontal stripes:
These colours are inspired by the goddess Bhuvaneshwari, who is considered the protector of Kannada-speaking people.
The standard design of the Karnataka State Flag includes:
| Featuer | Specification |
| Colours | Yellow and Red |
| Ratio | 2:3 |
| Material | Cotton or Polyester |
The Karnataka flag is more than just a flag—it is a symbol of unity for Kannada speakers. It represents:
The flag is prominently displayed during Kannada Rajyotsava (November 1) and various Kannada language movements.
Although Karnataka does not have an official flag day, November 1st (Kannada Rajyotsava) is celebrated with flag hoisting, cultural performances, and rallies.
India is a union of princely states that signed a treaty at the time of the nation’s freedom from the British Raj in 1947 to form one single Republic that will adopt a democratic government which follows the Constitution of India. The nation has remarkable diversity, and it is easy for states to lose their regional identity as they merge with other states. Hence, with various goals in mind, different states follow protocols to unite the people of the state.
Jammu & Kashmir was the first state to have its flag, and though it does not have official recognition from the Indian Government, Karnataka also upholds its state flag with pride.
In the 1994 case before the Indian Supreme Court, S. R. Bommai v. Union of India, the Supreme Court declared that the Constitution of India does not prohibit a state to have its flag, however, the state flag cannot dishonour the national flag. Further, as per its provision, the national flag will fly higher than the state flag.
Although several proposals have been put forth, official recognition hasn’t been accorded to Karnataka’s state flag until now.
The Karnataka flag was designed in the mid-1960s by Kannada activist, journalist and writer Ma Ramamurthy. The litterateurs of Karnataka have pointed out that the current flag design represents a pro-Kannada political party called “Kannada Paksha” and may not be ideal for consideration as the state flag. In 2018, the government proposed some design changes like making the flag tricolour yellow, white and red and adding the state emblem Ganda Bherunda surrounded by the mythical creature Sharabha at the top.
This flag design, however, was never officially adopted and the old design continues to be used.
The Karnataka flag holds immense significance for the people of Karnataka. It is prominently displayed during:
Kannada Rajyotsava (Karnataka Formation Day) – Celebrated on November 1st, marking the formation of Karnataka as a state.
Pro-Kannada Movements – Used as a symbol of Kannada pride and unity.
Cultural Events – Representing the rich traditions of Karnataka.
Political Rallies and Protests – Used by Kannada activists advocating for linguistic and cultural rights.
The Kannada Flag acknowledges the need for regional identity, especially in a country as diverse as India. As the state is experiencing an influx of non-Kannadigas, the local people use the flag to -
Though it does not have official recognition, emotionally, the people of Karnataka relate to the flag and are the mark of their patriotism. Whether in Karnataka or elsewhere, Kannadigas raise the flag during cultural festivals and gatherings. Across the state, the Kannada Flag can be seen outside houses, shops and various institutions throughout the year.
Yellow symbolises prosperity, while red stands for bravery.
No, the flag is not officially recognised by the Government of India.
It is commonly used during Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations.
TThe flag was first designed by Ma. Ramamurthy in 1965 to promote Kannada identity.
The flag's legal status and implications on federalism have sparked debates.
The Karnataka State Flag can be hoisted, but it must always be lower than the Indian National Flag.
The colours represent wealth, prosperity, courage, and sacrifice, inspired by goddess Bhuvaneshwari.
No, Jammu and Kashmir had an official flag before Article 370 was revoked in 2019. Karnataka’s flag, however, remains unofficial but widely used.
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