Dhvaja

Many variations of the dhvaja's design can be seen on the roofs of Tibetan monasteries (Gompa, Vihara) to symbolize the Buddha's victory over four maras.

The top of the banner takes the form of the chatra ("ceremonial parasol"), another of the 8 signs, surrounded by a central "wish granting gem" (Sanskrit: cintamani).

This domed parasol is rimmed by an ornate golden crest-bar or moon-crest with makara-trailed ends, from which hangs a billowing yellow or "white silk scarf'"(Sanskrit: khata) (see top right).

As a hand-held ensign, the victory banner is an attribute of many deities, particularly those associated with wealth and power, such as Vaiśravaṇa, the Great Guardian King of the north.

As a roof-mounted ensign, the victory banners are cylinders usually made of beaten copper (similar to toreutics) and are traditionally placed on the four corners of monastery and temple roofs.