In Greek mythology, the most beautiful of women; daughter of Leda and Zeus (transformed as a swan). She was abducted as a young girl by Theseus, but rescued by her brothers Castor and Pollux (Greek Polydeuces). Helen married Menelaus, king of Sparta, and bore him Hermione, but during his absence was seduced by Paris, prince of Troy; their flight precipitated the Trojan wars.
The red disc, set towards the hoist, recalls the fight for independence. Green represents Islam, fertility, and the country's youth. Effective date: 25 January 1972.