Ayodhya Ram Mandir Kovidara Flag: Know mythological history and significance of Kovidara tree on religious flag of Shri Ram Temple
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Kovidara Flag: The flag hoisting ceremony has been completed at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the flag after having a darshan at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The flag hoisted on the top of the Ram Temple features the symbol of the Kovidar tree along with the sun and 'Om'.
The Kovidara tree symbolizes the power and sovereignty of Ayodhya. Over the course of changing times, the significance of both the flag and the Kovidara tree on the flag has diminished. Now, this royal tree is being preserved in the courtyard of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Let us learn the story of the Kovidara tree.
Tree of immense ancient and mythological significance
According to mythological texts, the Kovidar tree is a tree of immense ancient and mythological significance, specifically associated with the Raghuvansh dynasty of Ayodhya and the legacy of Lord Rama. It is said that the Kovidara tree was the royal emblem of ancient Ayodhya. This tree has been depicted on the flags of the kings of the Raghuvanshi dynasty (Suryavanshi) for centuries.
World's first hybrid plant
The Kovidara is mentioned in the 84th chapter of the Ayodhya Kand and in Kalidasa's Ritusanhara 36.3. Experts say that the Puranas tell us that the Kovidara is not an ordinary tree. Sage Kashyap created this tree by mixing the essence of the Mandar tree with the Parijat tree. The people of the Ganges region first began cultivating it.
Thus, the Kovidara tree emerges as the world's first hybrid plant. The Kovidara flower has the purple hue of the Mandar tree. Furthermore, the way Ayodhya adopted this tree reveals the scientific understanding of the Raghukul.
Kovidara tree was the royal emblem of Ayodhya in Treta Yuga
This is clearly mentioned in the Ayodhya Kand of the Valmiki Ramayana. When Bharata arrived in Chitrakoot with his army to bring Lord Rama back from exile, Lakshmana recognized from afar the flag bearing the 'Kovidara' tree flying on his chariot, recognizing it as the army of Ayodhya.
It is believed that the Kovidara tree symbolizes the high ideals of asceticism, sacrifice, and dignity of the Raghuvansh.
Kovidara tree is considered a medicine in Ayurveda
The Kovidara tree (or Kachnar) is also considered very important in Ayurveda. Its flowers, leaves, and bark are used medicinally to treat many ailments.
It is known for its beautiful purple or light pink flowers. The flag features the Om and Surya symbolism. The design surrounds the Om symbol, which is considered the eternal primordial sound in Hindu tradition.
Prakash Kumar Pandey