Dhwaja Puja, sometimes called Flag Puja, is a significant ritual in various Hindu traditions, especially among certain groups and during special festivals. The word "Dhwaja" means flag or banner. In Hinduism, the flag is a symbol of honour, victory and power. It represents the presence and protection of the gods. It is commonly raised in temples and during religious events to represent the presence of God.
Dhwaja Puja is an important part of many cultural and religious festivals, representing different areas of life such as success, protection and unity among communities.
Dhwaja Puja Rituals
Temple Celebrations: Many temples, particularly those dedicated to gods such as Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga, hold Dhwaja Puja with unbelievable dedication. Flowers, textiles and sometimes god symbols decorate the flagpole, also known as "Dhwaja Sthambha.
During major festivals such as Navratri and Dussehra and the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, special Dhwaja pujas are performed. The flags used during these festivals are believed to be very blessed. Some devotees perform Dhwaja Puja at home, especially on special days or before starting new tasks.
Dhwaja Puja Samgri
- Gulaal (गुलाल)
- Sindur (सिन्दुर)
- Kapoor (कपूर)
- Turmeric (हल्दी)
- Kanku (कंकू)
- Chandan (चंदन)
- Rice (चावल)
- Flowers (पुष्प)
- Chundaadi (चुंदादि)
Dhwaja Puja Vidhi
To perform Dhwaja Puja, start by making a Sankalpa and cleaning the area and flagpole with holy water. Arrange the necessary items: gulaal, Sindur, Kapoor, turmeric, kanku, Chandan, rice, Flowers and chundaadi.
Decorate the flagpole with flowers and a Chundaadi and apply a mixture of Gulaal, Sindur, Turmeric and Chandan. Place a decorated Kalash near the flagpole, light Kapoor and pray to the deity with mantras.
Offer Kanku, Rice and flowers, then perform aarti with a lit lamp. Raise the flag with the chanting of mantras, ensuring it flies freely. Chant specific prayers, go around the flagpole three times and end the puja by praising the deity and distributing prasad.
