dwajasthambam

thumb|Brihadeeswarar Temple, [[Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.]]

The dhvajastambha (ध्वजस्तम्भ) refers to the flagstaff erected in front of the mukhamaṇḍapa (front pavilion) of a Hindu temple. The dhvajastambha is usually built within the temple walls (prākāra). They are traditionally built of wood and stone, where the wooden variety is often finished with a metal covering (kavaca). The dhvajastambha is a common feature in South Indian temples.