The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has been at the center of national attention for years, and every ceremony or ritual conducted there becomes a topic of widespread discussion. One such event was the recent Dhwaja (flag) hoisting ceremony atop the Ram Temple. While the ritual was celebrated by many devotees across India, several prominent Shankaracharyas expressed dissatisfaction and chose not to endorse the event. Their objections were rooted in traditional scriptures, ritualistic correctness, and the belief that the temple is still incomplete. This article explains in detail why the Shankaracharyas opposed the Dhwaja ceremony and what their concerns signify in the broader religious context.
The Background of the Ram Mandir Dhwaja Ceremony
The Dhwaja or flag hoisting is considered an auspicious act in Sanatan Dharma. It symbolizes victory, purity, and the presence of divinity. At Ayodhya, the ceremony was seen as a spiritual milestone symbolizing the temple's readiness for worship. However, representatives of multiple Shankaracharya Peethas felt the ritual was performed prematurely and without adherence to scriptural norms.
Why the Event Became Controversial
The disagreement did not arise because the Shankaracharyas opposed the Ram Mandir, but because they believed that certain religious principles were overlooked. Their criticism was focused on three main concerns: the incomplete temple structure, violation of traditional rituals, and unnecessary haste driven by non-religious motivations.
Also read: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Ceremony: Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath Mark a Historic Milestone
Key Reasons Behind Shankaracharyas’ Opposition
1. The Temple Is Still Incomplete
One of the most significant objections raised by the Shankaracharyas was that the Ram Temple has not yet been fully constructed. According to temple architecture guidelines (Shilpa Shastra), major rituals such as flag hoisting or pran-pratishtha should only be performed after the physical construction of the temple is complete, especially after the shikhar (main spire) and kalash (topmost finial) are installed.
Without the temple being structurally complete, any major ritual is considered premature. The Shankaracharyas argued that performing auspicious ceremonies before the completion of the temple undermines the sanctity and purity of the ritual.
2. Scriptural Guidelines Were Not Followed
The Shankaracharyas stated that the Dhwaja ceremony must follow specific Vedic and Agama traditions. They claimed the ritual performed in Ayodhya did not align with the methods described in scriptures.
Issues Cited by the Shankaracharyas
- The flag should be hoisted only after the installation of the kalash on the temple’s main shikhar.
- The ceremony must be supervised by qualified Vedic scholars adhering to shastric procedures.
- Ground-to-top flag hoisting is not a traditionally sanctioned method.
They emphasized that ritual purity is the foundation of temple worship, and any deviation sets a poor precedent for future ceremonies.
3. Concerns About Political Influence and Haste
Another point raised by some Shankaracharyas was the presence of political figures and the perception that the event was being rushed for publicity rather than religious reasons. They insisted that religious ceremonies should be free from political presence or interference to maintain sanctity.
They felt the event was organized in haste to symbolize progress rather than adhering to the timeline required by tradition and ritual correctness.
4. Rituals Should Be Conducted Only After Pran-Pratishtha
Pran-pratishtha is the process of invoking life into the deity, transforming an idol into a living divine presence. According to Shankaracharyas, major external ceremonies like flag-hoisting should be performed only after pran-pratishtha, which itself should be carried out only after the temple is fully completed.
Performing rituals before the deity is fully established is considered inappropriate according to many ancient traditions.
What the Shankaracharyas Believe Should Be Done
Wait for Temple Completion
The Shankaracharyas have repeatedly asked that all major rituals—including dhwaja hoisting and pran-pratishtha—be performed only when the temple structure is 100% complete.
Follow Shastric and Traditional Procedures
They insist that the rituals must align strictly with the Agama Shastras and Vedic traditions to preserve the temple’s spiritual integrity.
Maintain the Sanctity of Religious Rituals
They believe that religious ceremonies should remain free from political influence and must be guided solely by spiritual leaders and traditional authorities.
The Larger Religious Debate
This disagreement reflects a deeper, long-standing issue in Indian religious practices: the tension between traditional scriptural authority and modern mass religious events. While large public ceremonies bring unity and devotion, they must also align with ancient traditions to maintain spiritual authenticity.
The Shankaracharyas' opposition does not imply lack of support for the Ram Mandir but highlights the importance of preserving ritual purity and respecting traditional norms.
Conclusion
The Shankaracharyas’ objections to the Ram Mandir Dhwaja ceremony stem from their commitment to scriptural accuracy, ritual purity, and the belief that the temple must be completed before major ceremonies are performed. Their stance represents a traditional viewpoint rooted in thousands of years of Hindu temple tradition. Understanding their perspective is essential in appreciating the cultural and spiritual depth behind temple rituals and ceremonies.
Disclaimer
This article is written for informational and educational purposes. The views explained here are based on publicly available statements made by Shankaracharyas and religious authorities. The information does not intend to criticize or support any individual or organization. Readers are encouraged to verify details from official sources.