Ayodhya: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (November 25, 2025) ceremonially hoisted the saffron Dharma Dhwaj atop the Ram Temple, marking the formal completion of the temple’s construction and ushering in what leaders described as a “new era” in India’s cultural and spiritual landscape. The flag, a right-angled triangular saffron banner measuring 10 feet in height and 20 feet in length, bears the image of a radiant Sun symbolising Lord Ram’s valour, an ‘Om’, and the sacred Kovidara tree. The ceremony was attended by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Governor Anandiben Patel. Mr. Modi described the hoisting as a “tipping point in India’s cultural consciousness,” calling it a moment that reflected centuries of devotion, struggle and aspiration connected to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

Historic ceremony marks completion of Ram Temple structure

Addressing thousands of devotees gathered at the temple complex, Mr. Modi said, “Today, the city of Ayodhya is witnessing another tipping point in India’s cultural consciousness. This moment of flag hoisting, celebrating the pinnacle of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, is unique and ethereal. Siyawar Ramchandra ki Jai.” The ceremony, held on the auspicious occasion of Vivah Panchami, is viewed by religious leaders as symbolically significant, coinciding with the celebration of the divine wedding of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hailed the flag hoisting as the beginning of “a new era,” emphasising the struggle of saints, devotees and campaigners who contributed to the Ram Mandir movement over generations. “The grand temple of Lord Shri Ram is a symbol of faith, respect and self-pride of 140 crore Indians. Today’s auspicious day is dedicated to the unending struggle of revered saints, warriors and devotees,” he said.

A symbol of heritage, justice and a ‘New India’

Mr. Adityanath went on to describe the Dharma Dhwaj as a proclamation of the eternal nature of dharma and the principles of Ram Rajya. “The saffron flag hoisted at Shri Ram Mandir is a symbol of religion, dignity, truth, justice and national consciousness. It is a symbol of the concept of a developed India. We are witnessing a New India, where there is a synergy of development and heritage,” he said. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the temple construction and the movement behind it.

Massive security measures in Ayodhya

Earlier in the day, the temple town saw heavy security deployment, with 6,970 personnel, including ATS commandos, NSG snipers, cyber units and specialised surveillance teams, stationed across the region. Anti-drone systems and advanced monitoring equipment were placed around the temple complex as devotees began arriving from early morning. Vehicles entering the city were thoroughly checked, and paramilitary forces, bomb squads, dog squads and rapid response teams supervised movement around key points. Despite the tight security, the atmosphere remained festive, with chants of Jai Shri Ram resonating through the streets and temple corridors. Visiting seers called the Dhwaj Arohan an act of “historic fulfilment.”

PM Modi offers prayers at temple sanctums

During his visit, the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Ram Darbar Garbh Grah, the Ram Lalla Garbh Grah, and other major sanctums such as the Saptmandir, Sheshavtar Mandir and Mata Annapurna Temple. The Ram Temple, now fully complete, features: 87 carved stone panels depicting episodes from the Valmiki Ramayana on the outer walls; 79 bronze-cast cultural depictions along the enclosure walls; intricately designed pillars, mandaps and sanctums following traditional Nagara architectural style. Devotees described the moment as emotional and spiritually significant, highlighting the culmination of decades of anticipation following the Supreme Court’s 2019 judgment and subsequent rapid construction work.

Conclusion

The hoisting of the saffron Dharma Dhwaj stands as a defining cultural and religious moment for millions of devotees across India and abroad. With the Ram Temple now fully completed and its flag raised, the city of Ayodhya has entered a new chapter—one marked by heritage, faith and renewed national identity.