Ayodhya lord Rama's birthplace
From ancient times, the descendants of Ikshvaku, the eldest son of Vaivasvata Manu, ruled the earth. Manu established his capital in the city of Ayodhya, situated on the banks of the Sarayu River in the Kosala region. Later, during the reign of Maharaja Dasharatha, a descendant of Ikshvaku, Ayodhya flourished miraculously.
Wide and straight roads were constructed in the city of Ayodhya, which were meticulously cleaned with fragrant water mixed with sandalwood. The entry gates of the city were adorned with marble arches, and the doors were made of gold and silver, studded with precious gems. The fortifications of Ayodhya were very strong, and thousands of warriors were appointed to protect the city from invaders.
Throughout the city stood a seven-story royal palace surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks with lotus-filled ponds. Everywhere, the sound of music instruments could be heard along with the chirping of parrots and peacocks. The gentle breezes carried the fragrance of the blossoms and the mist from countless fountains, providing relief from the summer heat to passing travelers. Thus, it seemed as if Ayodhya surpassed even the celestial city of Amaravati, the abode of Lord Indra.
The streets of Ayodhya were always bustling with travelers. Kings, princes, and nobles from all parts of the world visited there annually to pay homage and express their respect. Maharaja Dasharatha was a great sage-king, revered equally to the sages. He was truthful, and his subjects loved him dearly. Maharaja Dasharatha was also a great warrior, capable of facing thousands of enemy combatants. Due to his righteousness and the devotion of his subjects, the ideals of Vedic civilization were upheld there.
Ayodhya was abundant in all material wealth and devoid of the physical sufferings that arise from sinful living. For the peace and prosperity of the kingdom, all four social classes (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras) worked cooperatively in Ayodhya. There was neither any deceit nor any miserliness among the people.
