Sri Lanka’s flag shows a golden lion holding a sword on a maroon panel with a gold border and four bo leaves, plus green and orange vertical stripes at the hoist. Adopted in 1948 and revised in 1951 and 1972, it symbolises Sinhalese heritage (lion), Buddhist virtues (bo leaves), and inclusion of minorities (orange and green). Ratio 1:2; protocol and penalties are codified.
Sri Lanka’s national flag, often called the Lion Flag, integrates ancient Sinhalese royal symbolism with modern commitments to pluralism. Upon independence in 1948, the maroon lion‑bearing banner became the national flag; in 1951, two narrow vertical stripes—green and orange—were added to reflect the Muslim and Tamil communities. In 1972, four golden bo (pipal) leaves were placed at the corners of the maroon panel, representing Buddhist virtues and anchoring the design.
The lion holding a kastane sword references royal standards of the Kandyan kingdom; the maroon field evokes historic Sinhalese identity. The green and orange stripes near the hoist signal recognition of minority communities within the unitary state. The gold border and bo leaves confer a ritual frame and spiritual resonance.
Regulations set the ratio at 1:2 and define the relative widths of the vertical stripes, border thicknesses, and artwork for the lion and leaves. Protocol covers respectful handling, precedence, illumination at night, half‑masting during state mourning, and dignified retirement. Laws prohibit desecration and unauthorised commercial use.
The design, stable since 1972, features prominently on Independence Day, at schools and ministries, and at overseas missions. Public education materials explain symbolism and correct display to maintain consistency across contexts.