In a historic moment for India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the saffron flag atop the 191-foot-high shikhar of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. The ceremony, known as Dhwajarohan, drew thousands of devotees and marked the formal completion of the temple after centuries of anticipation and devotion.
The Dharma Dhwaj, measuring 10 feet in height and 20 feet in length, is adorned with a radiant Sun, an Om, and the Kovidara tree, symbolizing the glory of Lord Ram and the ideals of Ram Rajya.
Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Address
- Healing Centuries of Pain:
PM Modi said the “wounds and pain” of centuries are finally healing, as a 500-year-old resolve has been fulfilled with the completion of the temple. - Awakening the Ram Within:
He urged citizens that for India to become a developed nation by 2047, the spirit of Ram must awaken within each of us. - Celebrating India’s Democracy:
While acknowledging India’s independence, PM Modi highlighted the need to overcome lingering feelings of inferiority:
“India is the mother of democracy. Democracy is in our DNA.” - Symbol of Truth:
The sacred flag is a testament that truth ultimately triumphs over falsehood, he said, congratulating Ram bhakts and everyone who contributed to building the temple.
Temple Architecture and Symbolism
- The shikhar follows the traditional North Indian Nagara style, while the 800-metre Parkota surrounding the temple incorporates South Indian design elements.
- The flag’s imagery includes:
- The Sun, representing Lord Ram’s Surya Vansh
- Om, symbolizing spiritual consciousness
- The Kovidara tree, considered the state tree of Ram Rajya
- The Sun, representing Lord Ram’s Surya Vansh
The flag hoisting marks the formal completion of the Ram Mandir, following the consecration of Ram Lalla in the garbhagriha in January 2024. This moment is being celebrated as a historic milestone for devotees and the nation alike.
SOURCE: Hindustantimes
