Ayodhya's grand Ram Mandir witnessed a historic moment today as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat unfurled the Dharma Dhwaja (religious flag) at the temple's pinnacle. This significant event, occurring 673 days after the Pran Pratishtha (consecration ceremony) of Ram Lalla, marked a major milestone in the temple's construction, declaring it 'complete.
The Historic Flag Hoisting Ceremony
At the auspicious Abhijit Muhurat of 11:50 AM, with the press of a special button, a 2-kilogram saffron Dharma Dhwaja majestically unfurled atop the 161-foot high spire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visibly moved by the moment, bowing with folded hands to the sacred flag. This instant not only symbolized the completion of the temple's construction but also represented a moment of profound faith and pride for millions of Ram devotees. The hoisting of the flag further intensified the festive atmosphere pervading the city of Ayodhya.
Presence of PM Modi and Mohan Bhagwat
Prior to the flag hoisting, Prime Minister Modi and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat offered prayers and had Darshan of Ram Lalla inside the Ram Mandir, while they also performed the first-ever Puja and Aarti at the Ram Darbar located on the temple's first floor. Prime Minister Modi brought special garments and a 'chanwar' (fly-whisk) for Ram Lalla, which he offered to the deity. During his visit, he also paid respects to the Sapt Rishis, worshipped Lord Sheshavatar Lakshman, and observed the reservoir within the temple complex. This was a crucial part of his Ayodhya visit, allowing him to experience various facets of the temple.
Grand Roadshow and Decorations in Ayodhya
Before the flag hoisting ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted an approximately 1. 5-kilometer-long roadshow from Saket College to Ram Janmabhoomi. During this procession, school students showered flowers on his convoy, and women enthusiastically welcomed him at various points along the route. The city of Ayodhya was adorned with over 1000 quintals of flowers for this special occasion, transforming the entire city into a vibrant celebration, while the crowds of devotees on the streets and the fragrance of flowers further enhanced the divine ambiance.
For this grand event, unprecedented security arrangements were put in place in Ayodhya. A 5-layer security cordon was implemented around the temple complex, with ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) and NSG (National Security Guard) commandos securing the entire area. On top of that, SPG (Special Protection Group), CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force), and PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) personnel were deployed at every vantage point to prevent any untoward incidents, while saints from various monasteries across the country were present at the ceremony, though Shankaracharyas weren't. Earlier, there were discussions that several celebrities, including Amitabh Bachchan, had been invited, but they weren't present.
Features of the Dharma Dhwaja and Ram Lalla's Attire
The Dharma Dhwaja hoisted on the temple possesses unique characteristics. This flag is designed to remain secure even in severe storms and will flip without tangling when the wind direction changes. Its staff is adorned with 21 kilograms of gold, adding to its grandeur, while the flag will be clearly visible from a distance of 4 kilometers, making the Ram Mandir identifiable from afar. Before the hoisting, a special Aarti was performed for Ram Lalla in the morning. Ram Lalla was adorned in 'pitambar' (yellow) garments made of gold and silk threads, further enhancing his divine appearance.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's Address
Following the flag hoisting ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the gathering. In his address, he referred to Ayodhya as 'New Ayodhya' and declared the moment a source of pride for all countrymen. The Chief Minister expressed his joy over this historic achievement and hailed the construction of the Ram Mandir as the dawn of a new era, while his address further strengthened the sense of enthusiasm and national pride among the assembled crowd.
