From a small, harbour police outfit at the beginning of the 17th century to one of the world's finest navy forces of the 21st century, the Indian navy has come a long way. It is the proud custodian of a rich maritime legacy, and for years, the rank and file of the navy has dreamt of a change in its ensign that would honour its civilisational heritage. Over the years, India's naval ensign has undergone several changes and transformed on many occasions, shedding the last remnants of the colonial past. On 2nd September 2022, the Indian navy adopts its new naval ensign. With the national flag on the upper canton and a blue octagonal shape and composing the national emblem, sitting atop an anchor, depicting steadfastness and superimposed on a shield with a navy's motto, Shamno Varuna in Dev Nagri. The octagonal shape represents the eight directions symbolising the Indian navy's multi-directional reach and multi-dimensional operational capability. The octagonal shape with twin golden bodders draws inspiration from the seal of the great Indian emperor, Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose visionary maritime outlook established a credible naval fleet consisting of 60 fighting ships and approximately 5000 men. The rising Maratha naval power during Shivaji Maharaj's period was the first to secure the coastline against external aggression. As India marks the 70-50th year of its independence, the new naval ensign is a step towards liberating the mind and further empowering the indomitable spirit of the sentinels of our seas, the Indian navy.