Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, November 25, hoisted the saffron flag atop the 191-foot-long Shikhar at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, during a flag ceremony to celebrate the completion of the temple’s construction. During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi termed the Ram temple flag as ‘dharma dhwaja’, calling it a symbol of struggle, determination and the values of Ram Rajya.
The Prime Minister was joined by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Ram Mandir flag ceremony.
PM Modi noted that the “wounds and pain” carried over centuries are finally beginning to heal as the 500-year-old resolution to complete the Ram temple has now been realized with a flag ceremony.
‘Dharma Dhwaja is not just a flag’: PM Modi
Describing the moment as “epochal”, the Prime Minister said that Ayodhya was witnessing another historical milestone, adding that “the whole country and the world are immersed in Rama”.
PM Modi said, “This Dharma Dhwaja is not just a flag. It is the flag of the rejuvenation of Indian civilization. The saffron colour, the Suryavansh emblem, the word ‘Om’ and the Kovidara tree embody the glory of Ram Rajya. This flag is a solution, an achievement, a story of struggle and struggle to create a physical form of 100 years.”
“For millennia to come, this flag will proclaim the values of Lord Ram. Truth is Dharma. There should be no discrimination or pain, and there is peace and happiness. There should be no poverty, and no one is powerless… This flag is a symbol of determination, guiding us on the path of awakening and devotion. It represents the fulfillment of dreams that have been passed down through centuries through sincere effort and the result of penance.” Also read | Ayodhya decorated with 100 tons of flowers before the flag ceremony
Congratulating the Ram devotees who contributed to the construction of the Ram mandir, he added that the flag on top of the temple will be a testimony that truth finally triumphs over lies. PM Modi said, “Our Ram does not discriminate and we are moving forward with the same spirit.”
The prime minister said that when India completes 100 years of independence in 2047, “we will have to ensure a developed India”.
Speaking about Lord Ram, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Ram left Ayodhya as a prince but returned as Maryada Purushottam, the embodiment of justice – a transformation profoundly shaped by the knowledge, guidance and mentorship of Maharshi Vashishtha.
“The affection of mata Shabari, the devotion of Hanuman and the friendship of others contributed to Ram’s growth. Ayodhya is home to seven temples, including the mata Shabari temple, which represents the tribal community, and the Nishadraj temple, which symbolizes friendship.”
About the Ram Temple Flag
According to an official statement, the saffron flag, measuring 22 feet by 11 feet, is made of parachute-friendly fabric with a thick nylon hoist rope and is attached atop the 161-foot-tall tower.
The flag bears the symbols of the Sun, representing the Surya Vansh, Om and the Kovidara tree, which is described as the state tree of the Ram Rajya.
