The highly anticipated consecration ceremony of Lord Ram's idol at the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya is scheduled for January 22, 2024. The nation is brimming with enthusiasm over this auspicious event. Recently, it has come to light that there have been modifications to the design of the flag to be hoisted at the Ram Temple.
The flag, which will adorn the Ram Temple, now features symbols of the sun and the sacred Kovidar tree. A hundred such flags have been crafted in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, and are being sent for the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Trust. Lalit Mishra, a resident of Hardua village in Rewa, is the mastermind behind these flags.
Recently, Lalit Mishra presented the proposed design of the Ram Temple's flag to Chhampat Rai, the Secretary-General of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Trust. A committee of five members had suggested some alterations to the design, and the new design will be presented before the committee for approval. The dimensions of the flag will also be finalized after the committee's review. This flag, set to fly atop the spire of the Ram Temple, is considered highly significant.
Lalit Mishra explained that the symbol of the sun has been incorporated into the design as it represents the Solar Dynasty. Additionally, the Kovidar tree, considered the royal tree of Ayodhya, is featured on the flag. Similar to the Banyan tree being called the national tree in present-day India, the Kovidar tree held great importance in ancient times. Some places also refer to the Kovidar tree as the Kachnar tree, but this notion is incorrect as these are distinct trees.
Ancient scriptures mention the Kovidar tree, but its significance has diminished over time. From a religious perspective, this tree held great importance, as evidenced in various ancient texts. According to Hindu mythology, Sage Kashyap created the Kovidar tree, and its mention can be found in the Harivansh Purana. This sacred tree was symbolically present in the royal flag of Ayodhya, as indicated in the Harivansh Purana. Therefore, it has been chosen to be featured on the majestic flag of the Ram Temple.
In Valmiki Ramayana, Sage Valmiki also references this flag. Additionally, it is considered highly beneficial for the environment, and the tree is known to possess medicinal properties. According to a narration in the Ramayana, when Bharat went to Chitrakoot to request Lord Ram to return to Ayodhya, the flag on his chariot bore the symbol of the Kovidar tree. Laxman, from a distance, identified the flag and deduced that it was the army of Ayodhya.
In conclusion, the redesigned flag for the Ram Temple, with its incorporation of symbols representing the Solar Dynasty and the sacred Kovidar tree, holds immense cultural and religious significance. As the nation eagerly awaits the consecration ceremony, these symbols on the flag add a deeper layer of connection to the rich mythology and history associated with Lord Ram and Ayodhya.
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