Decoding Indian Election Symbols- Unraveling Origins & Significance

Introduction

In the vibrant landscape of Indian politics, election symbols play a significant role in capturing the attention and loyalty of voters. These symbols hold a deeper meaning, representing the ideologies and aspirations of each political party.

In this section, we will explore various examples of election symbols used by prominent political parties in India and analyze their impact on electoral campaigns. We will unravel the hidden meanings behind these symbols while examining how they contribute to shaping public perception.

I. Bhartiya Janta Party- Lotus

Origin: The lotus has deep roots in Indian culture, often associated with purity and divinity. For the BJP, the adoption of the lotus traces back to the party's inception, drawing inspiration from its cultural and religious symbolism.

Significance: The lotus symbolizes purity emerging from the mud, mirroring the BJP's commitment to clean and transparent politics. Additionally, the lotus holds significance in Hinduism, aligning with the party's embrace of Hindutva ideology.

II.Indian National Congress- Hand

Origin: Congress (Requisitionists) initially had the bull as its symbol, but internal conflicts led to a split, and the symbol was taken by Congress (Organisation). Left without a symbol, Indira Gandhi opted for the cow and calf.

Post-Emergency, facing ridicule, Congress (Indira) needed a new emblem. The Election Commission offered three choices: an elephant, a bicycle, and an open palm. Indira chose the open palm, a symbol that persists as the Congress party's logo.

Significance: The hand symbolizes the UX commitment of the Congress to social justice and inclusivity. It acts as a visual bridge, connecting the party's outreach efforts to uplift all sections of society, creating an inclusive and accessible political experience.

III. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): Broom

Origin: The introduction of the broom in Indian politics marked a paradigm shift in the UX landscape with the emergence of AAP in 2012. The broom was carefully chosen as a UX element to sweep away corruption and foster transformative political change.

Significance: The broom, a dynamic and action-oriented UX element, communicates the AAP's commitment to cleaning up political malpractices. It serves as a tactile representation of the party's grassroots activism and connection with the common man.

IV. Communist Party of India (CPI): Ears of Corn and Sickle

Origin: The CPI's UX strategy seamlessly weaves together the visual elements of ears of corn and a sickle, symbolizing the unity of the agricultural and industrial working classes.

Significance: The UX symbolism of the ears of corn and sickle embodies the CPI's commitment to the welfare of farmers and laborers. It provides a visual narrative that resonates with the party's Marxist ideology, creating a cohesive and inclusive political UX.

V. Shiv Sena: Bow and Arrow

Origin: The bow and arrow have been UX staples for the Shiv Sena since 1966, representing the party's regional identity and commitment to safeguarding the rights of the Marathi-speaking people.

Significance: The UX elements of the bow and arrow convey readiness and strength, underlining the Shiv Sena's assertive approach in protecting the interests of its constituents. It creates a visually compelling and assertive political UX.

VI. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP): Elephant

Origin: The BSP's UX journey began with the choice of the elephant in 1984, as founder Kanshi Ram recognized its symbolism of strength, loyalty, and wisdom.

Significance: The elephant serves as a powerful UX element, representing the BSP's commitment to empowering marginalized communities. It creates a UX narrative that emphasizes strength and inclusivity, giving a voice to traditionally marginalized sections of society.