New Delhi/Ayodhya, 25 November (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to arrive in Ayodhya on Tuesday to lead a landmark ceremony, hoisting the sacred saffron flag atop the sanctum sanctorum of the newly completed Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir—a pivotal moment marking the culmination of the grand temple’s construction that began with the bhumi pujan on August 5, 2020.

The 'Dhwajarohan' (flag-hoisting) ceremony is scheduled during the auspicious Abhijit Muhurat, around 12 noon, coinciding with Vivah Panchami, a festival sacred to devotees as it marks the divine marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita according to the Hindu calendar.

Modi’s Itinerary and Sacred Visits

The Prime Minister’s visit is set to begin at approximately 10 AM with prayers at the Saptmandir, which includes shrines dedicated to ancient sages and revered figures such as Maharshi Vashishtha, Maharshi Vishwamitra, and Mata Shabari.

This will be followed by darshan and worship at the Sheshavtar Mandir, Mata Annapurna Mandir, Ram Darbar Garbh Grah, and finally the holy Ram Lalla Garbha Grah just before the ceremonial flag hoisting.

Ceremonial Details and Rituals

The Dhwajarohan ceremony is scheduled during the shubh muhurat between 11:52 AM and 12:35 PM, with around 21 Vedic acharyas and volunteers participating. The event will feature the blowing of conch shells as helicopters shower flower petals over the temple spire, adding grandeur to the spiritual occasion.

Symbolism of the Saffron Flag

The uniquely crafted flag measures 10 by 20 feet and will be installed on a 42-foot mast located 203 feet above the ground atop the 161-foot spire of the temple. Featuring a radiant sun (symbolising Lord Rama’s brilliance), the sacred ‘Om’, and the Kovidara tree from the Valmiki Ramayana, the flag is made from parachute silk designed to endure tough weather conditions and is mounted on a 360-degree rotating chamber for optimal movement.

Cultural and Architectural Highlights

The temple’s shikhar is constructed in the traditional North Indian Nagara architectural style, while the 800-metre circumambulatory Parkota showcases South Indian influences, reflecting the temple’s architectural diversity. Intricate stone carvings on the main temple tell 87 episodes from Lord Rama’s life, while 79 bronze panels adorning the enclosure highlight episodes from Indian culture.

According to the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the completion of this architectural and spiritual wonder will formally be commemorated with the upcoming flag-hoisting ceremony.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar