Ayodhya is poised for a defining spiritual moment today as the Ram Mandir prepares to conduct the Dhwajarohan ritual, marking the ceremonial completion of the temple’s construction phase. The event has been scheduled during the auspicious Abhijeet Muhurat, a period traditionally regarded as ideal for major religious ceremonies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the proceedings by hoisting a specially crafted saffron flag atop the temple’s 161-foot shikhara. The flag, measuring 22 by 11 feet, will be mounted on a custom-built 42-foot pole fixed to the main spire. Produced in Ahmedabad over 25 days, the flag features handcrafted golden embroidery including the sacred Om, the Sun and motifs inspired by the Kovidar tree, all symbolising Lord Ram’s heritage. The hoisting system, designed after technical consultations with senior Army officials, includes a rotating and weather-resistant mechanism and is made from parachute-grade fabric to ensure durability.
Ayodhya has undergone an extensive transformation ahead of the ceremony, with nearly 100 tonnes of flowers used across key routes and temple grounds. An estimated 6,000 to 8,000 guests from across the country are expected to attend. Organisers confirmed that several communities historically linked to characters from the Ramayana, such as those connected to Nishad Ji and Shabari, have been invited this year to encourage broader representation. According to Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee, the intention was to include groups who were never invited during past events.
The Dhwajarohan is regarded as the final major milestone following the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in January 2024. While the consecration activated the sanctum, today’s ceremony indicates that the entire temple complex is now formally prepared for regular worship, marking its transition from a construction site to a fully operational religious centre. The timing holds additional significance as it coincides with Vivah Panchami, a date believed to commemorate the marriage of Lord Ram and Sita.
Following the flag-hoisting, a grand aarti will take place, beginning an extended series of devotional programmes expected to continue throughout the day.
