Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, raised the saffron flag to signify the temple’s completion. It is regarded the “crown” of the temple’s divine construction, representing the activation of divine energy. This marks the completion of not just the main temple, but also the smaller temples in the periphery of the ram Temple Complex dedicated to various Gods. This flag honors the saints and characters of Ramayana with a distinctive emblem: the holy Kovidar Tree, symbolizing Ayodhya’s historical identity.
Kovidar Tree as Ayodhya’s Insignia
- The Ayodhya Kand of Valmiki Ramayana and the Harivansh Purana both make frequent references to the Kovidar tree.
- It was regarded as Ayodhya’s royal symbol during the Treta Yug (Triad Age).
- According to the scriptures, Lakshmana once noticed a big, luminous tree that resembled the fortunate Kovidar sign.
- Its installation in the Ram Temple symbolizes the resurrection of old memory and the restoration of cultural identity.
Importance of the Kovidar Tree
- The Kovidar (or Orchid Tree) is scientifically known as Bauhinia variegata and produces pink-purple ‘kanchanar’ (gold-like) flowers.
- Kanchanar Guggulu, a popular Ayurvedic therapy for thyroid and glandular disorders, is made from its leaves and bark.
- The tree is considered sacred and is typically planted near temples, particularly those dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The flag’s symbolic meaning
The saffron flag has three primary elements that symbolise Ayodhya’s spiritual legacy:
- The Sun Symbol: Reflects Lord Rama’s Suryavanshi (Sun) heritage, which stands for honesty, brilliance, and dharma.
- The ‘Om’ Motif: Placed in the middle, it represents unlimited cosmic energy and the unity of creation and divinity.
- The Kovidar Tree is Ayodhya’s old royal emblem, representing triumph, wealth, and cultural pride.
Flag is made in Kanpur
The flag is constructed of Nylon 66 parachute-grade fabric, which is the same high-strength material used in fighter jet brake parachutes on Indian Air Force aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, Tejas, and Jaguar.
The flag was totally designed and manufactured by the Ordnance Parachute Factory in Kanpur, which is owned by GIL. The flag was created by an 11-person engineering team, who began work in early November of this year (2025).
Some Key Facts About the Flag atop Ram Temple in Ayodhya:
- Ram Mandir Shikhar’s height is 161 feet.
- Flagpole height: 42 feet.
- Total flag height above ground: 200 feet.
- Visible from over 4 kilometers.
- Mounted on a 360-degree rotating clamp to avoid tangling.
- It employs an automated hoisting device similar to those used in Olympic events.
- Installed with support from Air Force aircraft.
