Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A Pilgrimage Destination for Devotees Around the World
Ayodhya, is a place with immense significance especially for the believers and the followers of the ideals of Lord Ram.
The story starts when King Dasarath was in a mid-life crisis desperate for conceiving a child, Sage Vashisth advised him to conduct the Puthresthi Yagna, a fire sacrifice ritual for conceiving a child. At the same time the gods were seeking for a saviour to descend and end the tyranny of King Ravana. The situation seemed convenient and thus Lord Vishnu descended onto the Earth, reincarnating for the 7th time in the womb of Queen Kausalya, in the city by the fertile banks of the Saryu river, as the rightful heir to the throne.
It was also in Ayodhya, often referred to as the Janmbhoomi, the city that stood as the capital of the Kosala kingdom that the epic tale of Ramayana unfolds.
AYODHYA’S ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL.
Pink sandstone serenades the divine architecture, symbolising spirituality and cultural reverence. Supporting this traditional yet modern structure are bricks with “Shri Ram” inscribed on each of them as if you could hear “Shri Ram” echoing in your ears with every step you take. These Ram Shilas not only symbolise reverence to the Lord but also draws parallels to Ram setu. This cultural marvel is completely built with stone with no iron or steel in it. The temple consists of five mandaps or pillared halls namely: Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap.
Inside the temple is a sight to behold. 100 events from Valmiki’s Ramayana have been engraved on the walkways and columns presenting Ram Katha Darshan. Combining traditional and modern elements, the temple’s design mirrors India’s rich cultural tapestry. Devotion, spirituality, and exquisite craftsmanship converge here, symbolising profound dedication and artistic mastery.”
BEST TIME TO VISIT AYODHYA
October to March, when the weather is cool and the conditions are pleasant, would be the best time to visit Ayodhya and explore the historical and religious sites of this region. The temperatures rise to 40 degrees during the summer, from April to June, and hence might be less favourable to explore. It pours heavy in the monsoon from July to September potentially hampering travel plans.
TEMPLES TO VISIT IN AYODHYA:
These are 5 places you can visit to empower your spiritual pilgrimage:
1. Hanuman Garhi: Dedicated to lord Hanuman, a ardent devotee of lord Ram, this place is a must visit for devotees. It is believed that visiting this place brings you courage and strength and wards off evil forces.
2. Kanak Bhavan: This is a temple dedicated to Lord Ram and Sita. It is believed that the deity images were gifted to Sita by her mother as a wedding present. The complex carvings and unique characteristics of this temple reaches out and calls for devotees immersing them in a deeper spiritual experience.
3. Treta Ke Thakur: Situated on the banks of the Saryu river is another temple dedicated to Lord Ram. It is believed to be the site where Ram performed the Ashwamedha Yagna after his defeating King Ravana, in an attempt to solidify his rule in the known world.
4. Nageshwarnath Temple: This temple has a unique role to play in Ayodhya. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the story goes that Lord Rama himself installed the lingam before his battle with Ravana.
5. Swarg Dwar: Also called gateway to heaven, is believed to be the spot where Lord Ram ascended to Heaven. The temple consists of complex carvings and sculptures that depict the scenes of the Ramayana.
Final Thoughts:
Ram Mandir temple has stood the test of time with unwavering faith and resilience. It stands as a symbol of hope for those who seek inspiration. Pilgrims from far and wide should embark on this journey that captivates the bystander with its carvings, culture and devotion.
This pilgrimage destination has everything to offer, who believe in Ram and also those who don’t, to experience the wealth of wisdom and cultural heritage of this place.
