Indian Navy's new ensign bears the seal of the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who is known to have laid the foundation for the modern Navy in India. The blue octagon encasing the National Emblem represents the eight directions, symbolising the Navy's "multidirectional reach and operational capability". The anchor depicted below the Emblem represents steadfastness, the Navy said. India leaves behind the colonial Ensign of Indian Navy and gives tribute to father of Indian Navy with it's New Ensign.