In older cars you held the indicator at the "lane change" position, not the lock into turn position. The lane change position is when you move the stalk and hold it before it clicks into lock. Its in every car you drive - even mehrans. The self cancel system is not used in lane change.
In new cars the 3 flashes are provided for the new *generation who cannot see past their iphones/androids while driving. The old system of lane change position still is there - just hold the stalk with your finger.