A 235-kg Panchadhatu bow, named ‘Kodanda’, began its journey from Odisha to Ayodhya on Friday, marking an important spiritual and cultural moment. The ceremonial bow was flagged off from Hanuman Vatika in Rourkela and is scheduled to pass through all 30 districts of the state before reaching its final destination.
Crafted using five metals — gold, silver, aluminium, zinc, and iron — the bow symbolises devotion, craftsmanship, and national pride. It bears inscriptions commemorating India’s military achievements, including references to the Kargil War and Operation Sindoor, along with the names of fallen soldiers.
Measuring eight feet in length and three-and-a-half feet in width, the Panchadhatu bow has been meticulously crafted by 40 women artisans from Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. The artisanship reflects traditional techniques and deep cultural significance.
Large crowds gathered to witness the send-off ceremony, with devotees offering prayers for the successful and auspicious completion of the journey. One devotee expressed pride in the initiative, stating that the journey of the bow symbolises devotion and unity, and urged people across the state to light lamps and offer prayers as it travels toward Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya.
