In a significant diplomatic gesture, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar extended warm greetings for the Dhwajarohan ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, describing it as an important civilizational symbol. The ambassador shared pictures from his previous visit to the temple during its construction phase.
Historic Flag Hoisting Ceremony
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat ceremonially hoisted the saffron flag atop the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple's 191-foot-high shikhar on Tuesday. The event symbolized the completion of the temple's construction and was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
In a post on social media platform X, Ambassador Azar stated: "Congratulations India for the Ram Mandir Temple flag hoisting in Ayodhya today and for restoring such an important civilizational symbol. Here are some pictures of my visit while in construction last year."
Symbolism of the Dharma Dhwaj
The sacred 'Dharma Dhwaj' carries three profound spiritual symbols rooted in the Sanatan tradition. The right-angled triangular flag measures 10 feet in height and 20 feet in length and features:
- Om - representing the eternal spiritual sound
- The Sun - symbolizing Lord Ram's Suryavansh lineage
- The Kovidara tree - a hybrid of Mandar and Parijat trees created by Rishi Kashyap, showcasing ancient plant hybridization techniques
The flag hoisting ceremony strategically coincided with the Abhijit Muhurat of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita's Vivah Panchami, adding spiritual significance to the historic event.
PM Modi's Vision for Developed India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the installation of the Dharma Dhwaja as a moment that heals "wounds of centuries" and fulfills a civilizational resolve maintained for 500 years. He emphasized that the flag reflects the rebirth of an ancient civilization and embodies the ideals of Ram Rajya.
While addressing the gathering at the ceremony, PM Modi stated: "Ram is not a person, He is a value. If we want to make India developed by 2047, we have to awaken Ram within ourselves. What day can be better than today for this resolution?"
The Prime Minister stressed that India must simultaneously draw strength from its heritage while freeing itself from "the slave mentality" to achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, when the country marks 100 years of Independence.
Reflecting on India's development journey, PM Modi highlighted that "in the last 11 years, every section of society, women, Dalits, backward classes, extremely backward classes, tribals, the deprived, farmers, workers, and youth, has been placed at the centre of development."
Earlier in the day, PM Modi performed pooja at Ram Lalla Garbha Grah, accompanied by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Governor Anandiben Patel. He also offered prayers at Mata Annapurna Mandir and the Saptmandir within the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises.
