Something about the city of Lord Ram – Ayodhya makes it timeless. Its deep-rooted history and spiritual significance have shaped India’s cultural and religious fabric for generations. “For today’s youth, understanding Ayodhya isn’t just about revisiting mythology or ancient tales — it’s about connecting with a living heritage that speaks of resilience, community, and the power of shared beliefs,” says Vipul B Varshneya, a noted architect and writer.
Over the past year, the opening of the Ram Mandir has redefined Ayodhya as more than a pilgrimage site. It has emerged as a living heritage, drawing not only devotees but also curious young minds eager to understand its relevance. For Varshneya, who penned Ayodhya: A Walk Through the Living Heritage and designed Ayodhya’s airport, this modern engagement with Ayodhya is a testament to its enduring spirit.
Vipul B Varshneya |
“The city’s evolution, from its sacred temples to modern infrastructure like the new Ayodhya airport, reflects how tradition and progress can coexist. As the architect of this airport and someone who has walked its streets and studied its soul, I believe it’s vital for young people to explore Ayodhya beyond headlines — to experience its vibrant traditions, its architectural marvels, and the stories of people who continue to shape its identity. In a rapidly changing world, Ayodhya reminds us of the importance of roots, continuity, and the timeless lessons of faith and humanity,” she adds.
Central to Ayodhya’s identity is its temple architecture, which Varshneya describes as “an ode to nature.” From carvings of blooming lotuses to celestial nymphs adorning temple facades, Ayodhya’s artistry reflects a deep reverence for both the divine and the natural world.
“Ayodhya’s temples celebrate life, mythology, and nature through their design. They embody stories of resilience, surviving centuries of turmoil and continuing to inspire awe. For young minds, they offer a tangible connection to the past’s beauty and creativity,” she explains.
The Ram Mandir itself stands as a symbol of this craftsmanship, with intricate carvings that echo the grandeur of ancient Indian temple art. It serves not only as a spiritual hub but also as a reminder of India’s architectural brilliance.
First anniversary
On January 22, 2024, the idol of Ram Lalla was placed on his rightful seat in the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. However, the one-year completion ceremony was celebrated on Jan 11, this year, according to the Hindu calendar.
To mark Pratishtha Dwadashi, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya hosted a series of spiritual and cultural events. The day began with an Agnihotra ceremony at the Yajna Mandap, accompanied by six lakh recitations of the Shri Ram Mantra, as well as chants of the Ram Raksha Stotra and Hanuman Chalisa. The celebrations included Shri Ram Rag Seva, featuring bhajans, ragas, and kirtans in praise of Lord Ram, alongside musical renditions of the Ramcharitmanas. Cultural programs, including dance performances and Ram Katha discourses, enriched the occasion. Shri Ram Prasad was distributed to devotees throughout the three-day festival, which concluded on January 13, marking a vibrant celebration of devotion and heritage.
Modern Ayodhya
In recent years, Ayodhya has embraced modernization without losing its soul. The newly built airport, a project led by Varshneya, is a case in point. “The airport is a gateway to Ayodhya’s living heritage, offering travellers a glimpse of its architectural aesthetics while ensuring functionality. It’s about making Ayodhya accessible to the world while preserving its authenticity,” she says.
For Varshneya, the importance of Ayodhya lies not just in its monuments but in its “living heritage”—a term she uses to describe the city’s enduring spirit. From the bustling ghats along the Sarayu River to the quiet dignity of sages’ ashrams, Ayodhya invites visitors to witness a culture that thrives on continuity and resilience.
What can Ayodhya teach modern society? According to Varshneya, it’s the idea of resilience and the strength of roots. “Ayodhya reminds us that progress and tradition aren’t mutually exclusive. It’s a living example of how we can honor our past while embracing the future,” she explains.
Ayodhya-Korea connect
Ayodhya’s identity lies in its 3000-year-old cultural, historical, and religious legacy. The existence of older dynasties, like the Gupta and Kushan periods, can be identified through on-site excavations. According to Varshneya, one of the most fascinating discoveries is the connection between Ayodhya, Thailand and Korea.
“Korea and this temple town have two millennia-old ties discovered in the last decade,” she says.
Here’s how!
Varshneya shares, “South Koreans discovered that a Princess or Queen of Ayodhya was married to Korean King Suro in the first century CE. Suro was the King of the Kimhay Kingdom, or present Korea. The Princess was married to the Korean King at the age of 16. The Koreans believe that the Princess was the mother of the descendants who unified various Korean kingdoms in the 7th century CE.”
“Since the first century CE, her descendants prospered and became the largest clan in Korea, known as the Karak, whose members had been highly distinguished people. She is regarded as the most blessed queen of Korea, and she is significant in the great temple city of Ayodhya, where Lord Rama was born. It is written in the 11th-century Korean chronicle the Samguk Yusa that the wife of King Suro of the ancient Korean kingdom of Geumgwan Gaya was a princess who travelled by boat from a faraway land called Ayuta to Korea in 48 AD,” she adds.
Now this is a story that would definitely spark conversations among the younger generation.
Don’t miss
Referring to Valmiki Ramayana, Varshneya mentions that Ayodhya was 84 kos long from East to West and 12 kos wide from North to South. This entire area houses many significant historical, religious and cultural places. Still, many of these places have gradually vanished due to the people’s lack of maintenance or negligence. At that time, they identified 151 places on the route of 84 Kosi Parikrama and installed stone pillars there because many places then were on the verge of extinction. About 33 places are situated within Ayodhya’s cultural boundary, i.e., in present-day Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Basti, Barabanki and Gonda districts.
Makhaura Dham is in Basti District, where King Dashrath performed ‘Putreshti Yajna’. The 84 Koshi Parikrama begins from this place during Baishakh Krishna Paksha. Makhaura Dham is about 21 km North of Ayodhya.
Equally, ‘Ramrekha’ is a famous pilgrimage place in Amodha Village of Basti District. River Ramrekha flows near the temple here. “It is believed that while returning from Janakpur after the wedding of Shri Ram and Sita, the people who joined the wedding had taken rest at this place, and to quench their thirst, Shri Ram had drawn a line by his arrow, which created a divine water body. Since then, it is known as ‘Ramrekha Teertha’,” she mentions. It is the first halt during 84 Kosi Parikrama.
Another halt of the Parikrama is Ashtavakra Ashram, situated at Amdahi Village in Gonda District, about one km from sage Yamdagni Ashram. Ashtavakra was the same sage who had impressed everyone with his scholarship at the court of King Janak.
Situated in Ambedkar Nagar District, Shri Shravanashram is known for the samadhi of the legendary Shravan Kumar. It is believed that it is the place where Shravan Kumar had come to fetch water for his blind parents.
Jambu Dwip is on the banks of the Sarayu River in the present Gonda District, about 25 km from Paraspur Bazar. It is known as the Western Gate of the epical border of Ayodhya. It has been the sadhana Bhoomi of sages Agastya and Tundil.
So, if you are a first-time visitor, don’t miss these recommended places by Varshneya.
As the Ram Mandir enters its second year, Ayodhya stands as a beacon for those seeking a connection between history and modernity. For Gen Z, the city offers more than just a trip through India’s past—it’s an opportunity to engage with values like resilience, faith, and the power of community.
“Ayodhya’s story is far from over,” Varshneya says. “It’s a living heritage that evolves with each generation, reminding us of the timeless lessons it has to offer.”
