Om, Sun & Kovidara Tree: What the Symbols on Ayodhya Ram Temple’s Flag Mean

The historic moment of hoisting the Dharma Dhwaj at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has stirred emotions across India and among devotees worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted this sacred flag in what residents call a milestone that fulfils a centuries-old belief. Designed with three divine symbols - Om, the Sun, and the Kovidara tree - the Dharma Dhwaj holds deep spiritual and cultural meaning rooted in Sanatan Dharma .

A Sacred Flag with Historic Significance

The Dharma Dhwaj hoisting atop the Ayodhya Ram Temple is more than a ceremonial act; it represents spiritual victory, devotion, and dharma. The specially crafted flag is 22 feet long and 11 feet wide, engineered in Ahmedabad by a parachute specialist to withstand high-altitude winds at the 161-foot temple summit. Weighing between two to three kilograms, it has been built for long-term endurance on a 42-foot flagpole, ensuring that its message remains unshaken for generations.

What the Dharma Dhwaj Symbols Represent

The Dharma Dhwaj carries three revered elements, each representing core foundations of Sanatan Dharma and the spiritual legacy of Lord Rama.

Om: The Eternal Sound of Creation

Om is considered the primordial sound of the universe - a vibration that connects existence, consciousness, and divine power. In Sanatan Dharma, Om signifies spiritual awakening and eternal truth, making it a perfect centrepiece for the Ram Temple flag.

Sun: The Symbol of Suryavanshi Heritage

The Sun symbol reflects Lord Rama’s Suryavanshi (Solar Dynasty) lineage. It invokes vitality, righteousness, and divine energy. For devotees, it reminds us that Rama’s ideals illuminate the path of dharma, just as the sun lights the world.

Kovidara Tree: Wisdom from Ancient Traditions

The Kovidara tree, believed to be a hybrid of Mandar and Parijat, is said to have been created by Rishi Kashyap. It symbolises knowledge, continuity of sacred traditions, and spiritual growth. The presence of the tree symbol on the Dharma Dhwaj signifies wisdom that flourishes through devotion.

Auspicious Timing: Hoisting During Abhijit Muhurat

The hoisting of the Dharma Dhwaj was performed during the Abhijit Muhurat on Vivah Panchami, a deeply auspicious period in the Ramayana tradition. The moment marks divine harmony and is considered ideal for beginning sacred ventures.

Ceremony Led by Vedic Rituals and Saints

Ahead of the flag hoisting, a four-day havan was performed at the Yagna Mandap with around 100 priests chanting Vedic mantras. Thousands of saints from eastern Uttar Pradesh and nearly 7,000 dignitaries were invited to witness the historic event. Prominent attendees included RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. For security and sanctity, mobile phones were restricted inside the premises.

A Cultural Milestone for Sanatan Dharma

For devotees, the Dharma Dhwaj is not just a flag - it celebrates the completion of the Ram Temple and symbolises the resurgence of ancient Indian culture. Residents and followers of Sanatan Dharma across the world view this moment as a proud affirmation of spiritual identity, heritage, and devotion to Lord Rama.