Khatun and her team’s dedication underscores the enduring spirit of patriotism and communal harmony
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW – National flags crafted by Ishrat Khatun and her team from Laulai village’s Panchayat Ghar will flutter on prominent government buildings including the Uttar Pradesh Assembly and Raj Bhavan on the country’s Independence Day on Thursday. Laulai village is in Chinhat block of Lucknow District.
Ishrat Khatun, who has undertaken the task of producing 55,000 pieces of the tricolour flags, expressed her pride and joy. “I am very happy that the tricolour flags made by us will be hoisted on significant government buildings like the state assembly, Raj Bhavan, Bapu Bhavan, and Lok Bhavan,” an ETV Urdu report quoted her as saying. “We are not only making these flags for our income but also out of love and respect for our country,” she said.
Khatun’s struggle is exemplary. “After my husband passed away in 2018, I have been solely responsible for supporting my three children as there is no other source of income in our home,” she said. “Despite my weakened eyesight, making these flags is a crucial part of running our household. During the pandemic, we also made masks, which helped us immensely.”
Vibha, another member of Khatun’s team, shared insights on their production progress. “We have received an order to make 55,000 tricolour flags, and we have already completed 25,000. We aim to reach our target in time,” she said. Vibha noted that their team, comprised of women from diverse backgrounds including Muslim, OBC, SC, and ST communities, is driven by a strong sense of patriotism.
Historically, the Indian flag holds deep significance, symbolising the nation’s unity and independence. The tricolour’s design was finalised in 1931 with contributions from various leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and prominent figures like Badruddin Tyabji. The Ashok Chakra, central to the flag’s design, was included to reflect the nation’s readiness to serve 24 hours a day.
Khatun and her team’s dedication underscores the enduring spirit of patriotism and communal harmony, reflecting the rich historical and cultural fabric of India.
