MUMBAI: In a remarkable display of synergy between India's military prowess and its rich cultural heritage, senior officers from the Indian Army have played a pivotal role in the meticulous rehearsals for the historic flag-hoisting ceremony at the newly completed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Scheduled for November 25, 2025, the event will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally unfurling the national tricolor atop the temple's 21-foot-high flagpole, a moment laden with nationalistic fervor and spiritual significance. The Army's involvement, which began last week, stems from the trust's request for expert guidance on ceremonial protocols, ensuring the ritual adheres to the highest standards of precision and safety.

The flag itself, weighing a substantial 11 kilograms and crafted from durable khadi silk, is designed to withstand the region's variable winds, thanks to a specially engineered rotating chamber at the pinnacle. Senior Army officers, including those from the ceremonial and protocol wings, conducted hands-on sessions with temple trust members, demonstrating techniques for secure rigging, elevation mechanisms, and contingency plans for adverse weather.

"The Army's expertise in flag-hoisting during Republic Day and Independence Day parades was invaluable," said Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the Ram Mandir Trust. "Their detailed advice on logistics and safety will ensure the ceremony is flawless, honoring Lord Ram's legacy while showcasing national unity."

This collaboration isn't merely logistical; it symbolizes the armed forces' deep-rooted connection to India's civilizational ethos. The rehearsals, held in the temple's expansive complex, involved mock elevations using scaled models, with officers emphasizing the symbolic weight of the tricolor fluttering against Ayodhya's skyline. Over 8,000 guests, including dignitaries, saints, and international invitees, are expected, making the event a global spectacle. Discussions also covered the fabric's UV resistance and the pole's seismic stability, given the site's historical earthquakes.

The Army's participation has drawn praise from across the spectrum, with veterans hailing it as a bridge between defense and devotion. Yet, it underscores broader challenges: funding for such mega-projects amid economic pressures and the need for sustainable tourism infrastructure around Ayodhya. As the date approaches, security rehearsals intensify, with NSG commandos simulating threats.