2019-01-16 Wed

Indra Dhvaja is referred as the Flag of God Indra. The reference of Indra Dhvaja is mention in various Indian epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. From the reference of Ramayana, Mahabharata and other ancient epics, we found that the flag of Indra i.e ‘Indra Dhvaja’ was hosted during Indra festival. This Indra festival was celebrated in India as a traditional festival since ancient times. During this festival Indra-Dhvaja was hoisted during the full moon day on the month of Ashvin, and it was brought down after the festival. From one of the Tamil literature, it was also found that Indra festival was celebrated during the New Year (the month of Chaitra) for 28 days. This festival was commenced by the people by hosting Indra Dhvaja. The details of this festival are mentioned in two ancient Tamil Sangam Age Classics ‘Manimekalai and Shilappadikaram.

Today, this festival is celebrated in the temples of the eastern parts of India like ‘Jagannat Puri’ and other key temples. This festival is celebrated as ‘Indra-Purnima’ during the full Moon of Bhadrapad month, which is preceded by a puja of the Indra Dhvaja.

The symbol of Indra Dhvaja which is commonly known as a triangular headed symbol is seen on various ancient Indian coins. This symbol is seen on coins of various dynasties and kingdoms such as Eran-Vidisha, Vidarbha ruler Kukutakhada, Ujjaini ruler Vijayaka, various rulers of Narmada valley – (Narayanamitra, Bhumidatta, Hathideva), City-State Kurara, Sunga Empire, Malwa, Saurashtra, various Kosambi/Kaushambi rulers – (Sarpa Mitra, Phaguni Mitra), Kuninda, Mauryan PMC’s and many more.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction