Two Shikhar Dhwajas hoisted atop Dwarka’s Jagat Mandir in wake of cyclone ‘Biparjoy

Dwarka: As the severe Cyclone Biporjoy intensifies and continues its path towards Gujarat, prompting a high alert along the Dwarka to Kutch coast, two mast flags (Shikhar Dhwaja) have been hosted together atop the Jagat temple of Lord Dwarkadheesh. This practice is deeply rooted in the ancient belief that hoisting two flags serves as a protective measure against potential danger.

Strong winds are sweeping through Dwarka and other coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch. Taking this into consideration, two flags have been simultaneously hoisted at the Dwarkadhish temple in Devbhoomi Dwarka. Initially, the morning flag hoisting was hindered by gusty winds. As a result, the decision was made to raise two flags simultaneously. Local residents firmly believe that the offering of two dhajas can help ward off any perils that Dwarka may face. Yesterday, two flags were raised together on the majestic 150-foot peak of Lord Dwarkadhishji’s Jagat Mandir.

The two flags that were raised during the day were hoisted not on the main flagpole but on the lower flagpole. Some people refer to this practice as a ‘half-saddle’ (Adhi Kathi), but it is not an appropriate term for God. A ‘half-saddle’ is a symbol of mourning. When the flag is lowered, it serves as a plea to God, indicating our inability to ascend to a higher flag in such conditions. This is the way of appealing to God, signifying that a calamity is approaching, and the safety and well-being of the people are linked to these two flags.

This practice of raising two flags simultaneously has occurred in the past during cyclones, such as in 2019 during Cyclone Vayu and again in 2021 during the Taute storm. It is widely believed that this tradition helps avert danger from Dwarka.

For many years, the Aboti Brahmins have faithfully offered five Dhajas daily at the pinnacle of the Dwarka Jagatmandir temple. Regardless of extreme weather conditions, be it cold, hot, or heavy rain, the Aboti Brahmins diligently hoist the five flags each day as a form of service and in adherence to an unbroken tradition. Even during calamities, they ascend and raise the flag on the temple, demonstrating their unwavering commitment. DeshGujarat