National emblem of India: The lion capital of Ashoka

It is adopted by the Government of India on 26 January 1950.

The Emblem is based on a sculpture of the Mauryan Empire called the ‘Lion Capital’ and rested on top of a tall pillar. It was built in 3rd century by Emperor Ashoka at Sarnath.

The four lion standing back to back symbolises power, courage and confidence. 

The words satyameva Jayate from mundaka Upanishad, meaning 'Truth Alone Triumphs', are inscribed below the abacus in devanagari script.