National symbols

In 1980s when Khalistan movement was at its peak, there was a joke doing the rounds in media circles. It was about a meet convened by the leaders of the movement to discuss the contours of a proposed Khalistan state.
There was complete consensus among the delegates at the meet on issues related to the national emblem and currency of the new state.
The near unanimity on these crucial issues prompted the conveners to solicit suggestions on the choice of national bird. The moment announcement was made inviting opinions on the issue of national bird, the delegates shouted in unison, "Tandoori Chicken"!!! The logic behind the demand was that unlike national bird of India, Tandoori Chicken could be served as traditional national dish.
If the worthies were to decide on the issue of national animal, I am sure bakra (goat) would have been an obvious choice. Given a choice, the criterion for a national symbol has always been and will remain personal interests of our leaders above everything else.