A historic chapter concluded in Ayodhya as Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally hoisted the 'Dharmadhwaja' (religious flag) atop the 'Shikhar' (spire) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. This momentous event occurred 673 days after the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, when at approximately 12:30 PM, during the auspicious Abhijit Muhurat, PM Modi pressed a button, and a 2-kilogram saffron flag majestically unfurled on the 161-foot-high spire. With this flag hoisting, the grand Ram Temple is now considered complete, standing as. A towering symbol of faith for millions of devotees across the nation and beyond.
PM Modi and Mohan Bhagwat's Special Puja in Ram Darbar
Prior to the flag hoisting ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, performed a special puja for the first time in the Ram Darbar of the Ram Temple. Both dignitaries jointly offered aarti to Lord Ram and devoutly had darshan of Ramlala. This significant moment further deepened the spiritual essence of the temple, witnessing the country's top leadership coming together to express their reverence. PM Modi arrived carrying special garments and a 'chanvar' (fly-whisk) for Ramlala, which he reverently offered to the deity, symbolizing devotion and service.
Prime Minister's Extensive Temple Tour
Following the puja and aarti, the Prime Minister embarked on an extensive tour of the temple complex. He paid respects to the Sapt Rishis (Seven Sages), who are revered as symbols of knowledge and asceticism in Indian culture. Subsequently, he also performed puja for Lord Sheshavatar Lakshman, Lord Ram's younger brother and unwavering companion, while pM Modi also observed the reservoir located within the temple premises, which highlights the grandeur and harmonious blend of ancient Indian architecture. This comprehensive tour demonstrated his respect and connection to every facet of the sacred site.
Unprecedented Security and Decorations
Upon his arrival in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Modi conducted a grand roadshow spanning approximately 1. 5 kilometers, from Saket College to Ram Janmabhoomi. During this procession, thousands of people lined the streets, extending a warm and enthusiastic welcome to their beloved leader. School children showered flowers on the Prime Minister's convoy, filling the entire route with fragrance and joy. Women, too, greeted him traditionally at various points, further amplifying the festive atmosphere in Ayodhya city, while this roadshow underscored the deep connection between the Prime Minister and the populace.
For this historic occasion, the city of Ayodhya was adorned like a bride. Over 1000 quintals of flowers were used to decorate the temple. Complex and its surroundings, creating a divine and enchanting spectacle everywhere. Security arrangements were also unprecedented, with a 5-layer security cordon implemented. Commandos from the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and National Security Guard (NSG) had cordoned off the entire complex. On top of that, personnel from the Special Protection Group (SPG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC). Were deployed at every strategic point to prevent any untoward incidents, ensuring the safety and sanctity of the event.
Features of the Dharmadhwaja and Ramlala's Divine Attire
The Dharmadhwaja hoisted on the temple's spire possesses unique characteristics. This flag is designed to remain secure even in severe storms and will unfurl without tangling when the wind direction changes, a testament to its special engineering, while its staff is adorned with 21 kilograms of gold, making it gleam from a distance. The flag will be visible from approximately 4 kilometers away, signifying its immense size and importance. Earlier in the morning, a special aarti was performed for Ramlala, during which the deity was adorned in 'Pitambar' garments made of gold and silk threads, further enhancing his divine and captivating image.
A Marvelous Confluence of Architecture
The architecture of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple presents a magnificent example of the diversity of Indian architectural styles. The temple's 'Shikhar' (spire) is constructed in the traditional North Indian. Nagara architectural style, which speaks to its grandeur and classical elegance. In contrast, the 800-meter 'Parikota' (circumambulatory path) surrounding the temple, which can also be referred to as the 'Parikrama Marg', is designed in the South Indian architectural tradition. This confluence points to India's rich cultural and architectural heritage in. A single location, making it a unique religious and artistic marvel.
Saints and Dignitaries in Attendance
For this significant event, saints from various monasteries across the country were present within the Ram Temple complex, adding to the solemnity and grace of the occasion. Although there were earlier discussions that several celebrities, including Amitabh Bachchan, had been invited for the flag hoisting ceremony, none had arrived as of the reporting time. Apart from the Shankaracharyas, other prominent saints and religious leaders bore witness to this historic moment, making the event even more sacred and significant. This ceremony marks not just the completion of a temple's construction. But also symbolizes the cultural and spiritual resurgence of a nation.
