New Parliament Building: The much-awaited special Parliament session has begun in the new complex inaugurated this year. The upcoming commencement of activities in the new Parliament building, scheduled for tomorrow, features six gates, each bearing the name of a creature, some real and others from mythology. These symbolic creatures collectively represent various facets of the Parliament, reflecting the diverse identity of India’s 1.4 billion people.
The six gates are known as Gaja Dwar, Ashwa Dwar, Garuda Dwar, Makar Dwar, Shardula Dwar, and Hamsa Dwar, each adorned with a sculpture depicting its respective creature.
Six Gates in the New Parliament Building
1. Gaja Dwar
Gaja Dwar, situated on the north side of the building, derives its name from the elephant, symbolizing attributes such as intellect, memory, wealth, and wisdom. In accordance with Vaastu Shastra principles, the north direction is linked with Mercury, considered a source of intellect. The prevalence of elephant motifs on gates is a common practice, as per Vaastu Shastra beliefs, signifying the potential to bring about prosperity and happiness.
2. Garuda Dwar
Named after Garuda, who is revered as the king of birds and the divine mount of Lord Vishnu, embodies a potent symbol of power and duty (dharma). Given Garuda’s association with Lord Vishnu, who is the preserver within the Hindu trinity, this gate carries significant religious and cultural importance. Notably, the emblem of Garuda is utilized in the insignia of several countries. Positioned as the eastern entrance of the new Parliament building, the Garuda gate underscores these profound connotations.
3. Ashwa Dwar
Ashwa Dwar takes its name from the horse, an emblem of power, strength, and courage, all of which are highly valued qualities in governance and leadership.
4. Makara Dwar
Makara Dwar derives its name from the legendary sea creature, the Makara, known for its unique combination of various animals. These Makara sculptures are a prevalent motif at entrances, prominently featured in Hindu and Buddhist monuments across South and Southeast Asia. Symbolically, Makara represents India’s unity in diversity, as it blends different creatures into one form. Additionally, Makara sculptures at doorways serve as protective symbols, guarding against negative influences. Notably, the Makara Dwar faces the entrance to the old Parliament building.
5. Shardula
The fifth gate is dedicated to Shardula, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of either a horse, elephant, or parrot. According to the government’s statement, the inclusion of Shardula on the gate of the new Parliament building signifies the collective power and strength of the country’s people.
6. Hamsa Dwar
The Parliament‘s sixth gate, known as Hamsa Dwar, takes its name from the swan. Hamsa is the revered mount of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge. The swan’s flight symbolises moksha, signifying the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death. The Hamsa sculpture adorning the Parliament’s gate serves as a potent symbol representing self-realisation and wisdom.
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