Nepal's flag defies norms with its unique shape

Nepal's national flag stands out globally as the only national flag not in a rectangular or square shape. Unlike the typical flags around the world, Nepal's flag features two rightward-pointing isosceles triangles colored crimson, outlined in deep blue and decorated with white shapes symbolizing the sun and the moon. The flag's design has historical roots, deeply tied to Nepal's identity, and reflects a resistance to colonial influence on flag design, prevalent in the rest of Asia. The flag's historical significance is underscored by its depiction in literature, such as Perceval Landon's 1928 book which described a double pennon version of the flag. Prior to the establishment of democracy, there were strict regulations regarding the display of the flag in Nepal, with most citizens prohibited from unfurling it at home. This changed post-1990 and again in 2008 as the country embraced a more democratic society, leading to the flag’s visibility in everyday life. The distinctive shape and cultural resonance of the flag have made it a topic of interest among vexillologists, as the community studies flags and their meanings. Ted Kaye, the secretary of the North American Vexillological Association, highlights how Nepal's adherence to its traditional design contrasts with the colonial trends in Asia that favor rectangular flags. Vexillologists often engage in discussions about the flag's history, its design specifications, and the implications they hold for national identity. In 1962, King Mahendra requested mathematicians to formalize the flag's specifications to ensure uniformity across different contexts, including official representations. Some of these technical details included defining the solar emblem with 12 rays and specifying color shades for both the sun and border. Interestingly, during the Olympic Games, specific regulations gauge how flags are displayed, often leading to discrepancies in size and proportion; however, the International Olympic Committee has allowed Nepal's flag to retain its unique shape despite pressures to conform to standard rectangular formats. This illustrates the ongoing relevance and complexity of Nepal's national emblem in both local and international spheres.