Om

Om, the expression 'Om' is respected by the Hindus generally and has a special significance in the Hindu scriptures. It is recited at the commence-ment of the recitations of Hindu religious works. Macdonell in his 'A Practical Sanskrit Dictionary' states that 'Om' is the sacred syllable used in invocations, at the commencement of prayers, at the beginning and the end of Vedic recitation, and as a respectful salutation: it is a subject of many mystical speculations. In the Sanskrit-English Dictionary by Monier-William it is said that 'Om' is a sacred exclamation which may be uttered at the beginning and end of a reading of the Vedas or previously to any prayer; it is also regarded as a particle of auspicious salutation. To 'Om' high spiritual or mystical efficacy is undoubtedly ascribed; but its use on a flag ('Om Dhwaj') does not symbolise religion, or anything religious, Jagdev Singh Sidhanti v. Pratap Singh Daulta, AIR 1965 SC 183: (1964) 6 SCR 750.