The flag of Sri Lanka, also known as the Lion Flag, is a symbol of the country’s rich history and culture. The flag features a golden lion holding a sword in its right paw, standing on a maroon background. The lion represents the bravery of the Sri Lankan people, while the sword symbolizes the sovereignty of the nation. The four bo leaves in each corner of the flag represent the four virtues of Buddhism: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity.
The maroon background of the flag represents the Sinhalese people, who are the majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka. The golden lion and sword represent the strength and courage of the Sinhalese people, who have a long history of defending their land and culture against foreign invaders.
The flag was first adopted in 1950, but it underwent several changes over the years. The current design was adopted in 1972, after Sri Lanka became a republic. The Lion Flag is a source of pride for the Sri Lankan people, and it is flown at government buildings, schools, and other public places throughout the country.
In recent years, the flag has become a controversial symbol due to its association with the Sri Lankan Civil War. The Tamil minority in Sri Lanka has criticized the flag for its emphasis on Sinhalese culture and history, and some have called for a new flag that represents all of Sri Lanka’s diverse ethnic groups. Despite these criticisms, the Lion Flag remains an important symbol of Sri Lanka’s national identity and heritage.