Episode Details

Ayodhya, known as Ram Janmabhoomi or Ram ki Nagri, is not just a city—it is the eternal abode of divinity, devotion, and dharma. Situated in the Faizabad district of Uttar Pradesh, along the serene banks of the Sarayu River, Ayodhya is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds immense historical, mythological, and spiritual significance.

1. Origin and History of Ayodhya

The name "Ayodhya" means "invincible" in Sanskrit. It is said to have been founded by Manu, the progenitor of mankind, and is described extensively in ancient Hindu scriptures:

* Mentioned in Atharva Veda as a prosperous and sacred city.

* Ramayana by Valmiki identifies it as the capital of Kosala kingdom, ruled by the Ikshvaku dynasty.

* Vishnu Purana and Skanda Purana glorify it as one of the seven holiest cities (Sapta Puri).

Timeline of Major Events:

* Treta Yuga (~900,000 years ago as per belief): Birth of Lord Ram.

* 5th Century BCE: Known as Saketa; visited by Chinese traveler Faxian.

* 7th Century CE: Described by Xuanzang as a Buddhist center.

* 1528 CE: Babri Masjid constructed.

* 1853-1949: Religious disputes begin.

* 1992: Babri Masjid demolished.

* 2019: Supreme Court verdict in favor of Ram Mandir.

* 2020: Bhoomi Pujan by PM Narendra Modi.

* 22nd Jan 2024: Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha and temple inauguration.

2. Religious and Cultural Importance

Ayodhya is believed to be one of the seven most sacred cities (Sapta Puris) in Hinduism. It finds mention in several ancient texts, including the Ramayana, Atharva Veda, Skanda Purana, and Vishnu Purana. According to Valmiki's Ramayana, Ayodhya was the capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty, ruled by King Dasharatha, the father of Lord Ram.

Ram, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, was born here, making Ayodhya a divine epicenter for Hindus around the world. The name ‘Ayodhya’ means “invincible” or “the place which cannot be conquered.”Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the embodiment of righteousness (Maryada Purushottam). Every inch of this land is believed to be sanctified by Ramayana-era events:

* Ram Janmabhoomi: Sacred site where Ram was born.

* Sita Rasoi: Kitchen used by Sita, located near Ram Janmabhoomi.

* Kanak Bhawan: Gifted to Sita by Queen Kaikeyi.

* Hanuman Garhi: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, protector of Ayodhya.

* Guptar Ghat: Believed to be the spot where Lord Ram took Jal Samadhi (final departure).

Ayodhya is also a part of the 84 Kosi Parikrama, a major pilgrimage involving circumambulation of Ayodhya over a vast radius.

3. Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir

Ram Janmabhoomi – The Birthplace of Lord Ram

The most sacred site in Ayodhya is the Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the exact place where Lord Ram was born. For centuries, it has remained a center of devotion, pilgrimage, and unfortunately, historical dispute. However, in 2020, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgment