Ayodhya: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat hailed the hoisting of the saffron flag atop the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as a "day of fulfilment," marking the culmination of a centuries-long aspiration. Speaking at the Dharma Dhwaj ceremony on Tuesday, Bhagwat said the event was a consequentially significant moment. He stated that the flag hoisting marked the formal completion of the temple construction.

Bhagwat reflected on the sacrifices made by countless individuals over generations for the cause of Lord Ram, stating that their souls would finally be at peace with the Dharm Dhwaj reaching the pinnacle of the Ram Temple. He paid tribute to Vishwa Hindu Parishad stalwart Ashok Singhal and other heroes of the temple movement, including Mahant Ramchandra Das, industrialist Vishnu Hari Dalmia, and numerous saints, students, and common people. Bhagwat asserted that the unfurling of the flag brought a deep sense of closure and reaffirmed an ancestral resolve.

Adding to the significance of the moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremonially hoisted the saffron flag atop the Ram temple in Ayodhya in the presence of the Sarsanghchalak of the RSS.

Bhagwat emphasized that the saffron flag is a powerful symbol of Ram Rajya, which he described as a period associated with peace, justice, and harmony. He noted that the flag, once seen as an insignia of peace and global goodwill, has once again risen to its rightful height in Ayodhya. Bhagwat stated that Ayodhya is now a symbol of perseverance for the world, and the temple and its flag serve as a constant reminder of values meant to safeguard the welfare of the world, with the saffron flag embodying the essence of dharma.

Elaborating on the symbolism of the Ram Temple flag, Bhagwat explained that the figure on the flag is the Kovidara tree, which is described in Ramayana traditions and resembles Kachnar. He said that the Kovidara tree carries qualities of the divine Mandar and Parijat trees, known to selflessly benefit mankind with their shade and fruits even as they endure extremities. Bhagwat expressed his hope that the Ram Temple flag would exemplify this virtuous way of living, stating that society must emulate it.

Bhagwat further added that the flag is an emissary of the sun that remains committed to its duty and fulfils it irrespective of the odds and adversities. He also referred to another symbol on the flag that symbolizes the house of Lord Ram, Suryavansh, noting that it stands for brilliance and persevering resolve, demonstrating what self-reliance and purpose can achieve.

Reflecting on history, Bhagwat acknowledged the Hindu society's resilience through five centuries of struggle. He called upon the people of India to build an India that embodies supreme glory, spreads peace and happiness, and delivers the fruits of development to all, stating that this is the expectation of the world and their duty.

Concluding his address, Bhagwat expressed hope that the moment would strengthen penance, devotion, and determination in public life and extended his best wishes to followers of Sanatan Dharma and citizens of India. He cited Ramdas Swami, noting that what was dreamt is now materialised in an even grander form.