Why Do We Hoist a Flag on Top of a Temple? Know Now!

When we visit any temple, whether small or grand… we often see a proudly waving flag on the top or roof of the temple. Some people call it a flag, while others refer to it as a religious banner. But have you ever wondered what the importance of this flag is and why it is hoisted? What is its purpose, and why is it always placed in a position where no one can touch it…? Today, we will try to explain this to you.

Flag on Top of the Temple

The primary reason for hoisting a flag on the top of a temple is to indicate the presence of that specific divine power within the temple. The flag on the temple announces its sanctity. It not only tells devotees which deity resides inside but also indicates the divine and spiritual energy of that temple. The colors and symbols on the flag usually match the deity established in the temple. When devotees look at the flag even from a distance, it reminds them of the divine power within themselves.

For example, Arjuna’s chariot had a Kapidhwaja, representing the power and blessings of Lord Hanuman. Not only in Hinduism but also in many other cultures, hoisting a flag symbolizes victory. The flag at the top is not just a decorative object but a symbol of triumph. People believe that hoisting a flag at the top represents the sacred place where the spiritual battle against ignorance, ego, jealousy, and desires is won. The flag waving on the temple roof becomes a symbol for devotees that sacred places and spiritual knowledge always triumph over distractions.

Saffron Flag as a Symbol of Renunciation

Temples and places related to Sanatan Dharma often use a saffron flag, which symbolizes renunciation. The color saffron is associated with monks, sages, and those who have renounced worldly desires. The saffron flag reminds people of the same. The flag becomes a powerful symbol of surrendering the ego and dedicating oneself to the Supreme, just as many accomplished priests and saints have done.

When people see the saffron flag, they begin to recognize the need to control personal desires and ego and walk the path of humility and selflessness. The flag and the flagpole on the top of a temple are considered a link between the Earth and the Universe. Many believe that the flag represents a cosmic axis connecting different realms—earthly, celestial, and subterranean. As the flag waves on a clear, breezy day, people see it as a continuous flow of divine energy and blessings from heaven to earth and to the devotees living in this realm.

Flag Seen From Afar

Elders often say that the flagpole on the top of the temple used to act as a sign of another temple in that direction. In ancient times, when there were no maps or online tools, these flags served as direction indicators. Temples were located far away, but tall flags helped people find them easily during their pilgrimages and journeys.

Flag of Each Deity

Brahmaji – Flag with a Swan symbol
Vishnuji – Garuda Flag
Shivji – Bull Flag
Maa Durga – Lion Flag
Ganeshji – Pitcher or Mouse Flag
Hanumanji – Saffron Flag