Symbolism Behind the Dharma Flag to Be Hoisted at Ayodhya Ram Temple
Ram Mandir’s Saffron Flag: Why Kovidar Tree and Om Are Sacred Symbols: After centuries of devotion, sacrifice and struggle, the Dharma flag that will soon be hoisted atop the grand temple of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya will stand as far more than a piece of cloth. It will represent the depth of Sanatan culture, the valor of devotees, and the glorious heritage of the Raghuvansh. On Vivaha Panchami, November 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist this saffron Dharma flag, which bears two sacred symbols—the Kovidar tree and ‘Om’.
Saffron: Symbol of Sacrifice, Bravery and Eternal Devotion
The flag is entirely saffron, a color that holds timeless significance in the Sanatan tradition.
Symbolisms of Saffron:
- Sacrifice: It reflects centuries of devotion and the sacrifices of saints, devotees, and protectors of the Ram temple tradition.
- Valor and Devotion: Saffron has long represented bravery and unwavering faith in the divine.
- Knowledge and Truth: The color symbolizes enlightenment, purity of purpose, and the triumph of truth.
- Raghuvansh Heritage: Saffron held a special place during the reign of the Raghuvansh, further cementing its association with Lord Ram’s lineage.
Kovidar Tree: Glorious Symbol of the Raghuvansh
One of the sacred symbols engraved on the Dharma flag is the Kovidar tree, which has been honored for centuries in the tradition of the Suryavansh—the lineage of Lord Rama.
Significance of the Kovidar Tree:
- Mentioned in Ancient Texts: Revered across scriptures, the Kovidar is believed to have originated from the divine trees Parijaat and Mandar.
- Associated with Kachnar: The Kovidar tree is considered similar in appearance to the modern-day Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata).
- Royal Symbol of Suryavansh: For generations, the flags of Suryavanshi kings carried the symbol of the Kovidar, echoing the ideals of Ramarajya and ancestral pride.
- Valmiki Ramayana Reference: Maharishi Valmiki mentions that the flag of Bharata bore the emblem of the Kovidar tree, highlighting its historic and spiritual significance.
‘Om’: The Sacred Sound of Ultimate Truth
The second emblem on the flag is ‘Om’, the primordial sound of the universe.
Spiritual Meaning of ‘Om’:
- Cosmic Sound: ‘Om’ represents the origin of creation, the vibration from which the cosmos emerged.
- Symbol of the Trimurti: It encompasses the energies of Brahma (creation), Vishnu (preservation) and Mahesh (destruction)—the foundations of Sanatan belief.
- Source of Divine Energy: Inscribing ‘Om’ on the Dharma flag is believed to radiate spiritual power, peace, and divine blessings across the temple complex.
A Flag Rooted in Dharma and Heritage
The Dharma flag to be hoisted at the Ayodhya Ram Temple is a powerful confluence of spiritual symbolism, ancient tradition, and cultural pride. Embodying the ideals of sacrifice, cosmic truth, and the legacy of the Suryavansh, the flag will stand not only as a marker of devotion but as a beacon of Sanatan heritage for generations to come.
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