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Amazing Ayodhya: The Splendid Ancient City of Lord Rama
How big was the ancient city of Ayodhya?
Why is this city so significant for Hindus?
Who established the city and what did it look like?
What did Lord Rama and Devi Sita's palace look like?
What sort of animals were found in this ancient land?
No one grows up in India untouched by the beautiful story of Lord Rama and Devi Sita. Every Dussehra we celebrate the victory of Rama over Ravana, the victory of good over evil. Every Deepavali, we commemorate the return of Rama and Sita to Ayodhya and hear the tale of how the entire city was lit up to receive their beloved king and queen. But is the magnificent capital of Ayodhya just limited to this?
Ayodhya was a renowned pilgrimage destination since the dawn of mankind, and after the birth of Lord Rama, it became a place of supreme importance for Hindus. Amazing Ayodhya is an attempt in gaining knowledge about this ancient city-its architecture, its design, its buildings and all the splendid details during the era when Lord Rama walked this earth. This splendidly researched book, replete with shlokas from the Valmiki Ramayana, offers authentic information about the city which will not only help understand the life and times of ancient Hindus but also the revered figures of Rama and Sita.
Replete with descriptions, author Neena Rai draws out comparisons of an earlier era with our current life and culture, thus connecting the past with the present. She further compares Ayodhya with the cultures of other ancient civilisations so that the reader feels 'connected' to the past and the content of the book appears 'contemporary'.
A fascinating account of an ancient city with significant contemporary relevance, Amazing Ayodhya is a must-read for a better understanding of history, scriptures and Hindu civilisation.
Why is this city so significant for Hindus?
Who established the city and what did it look like?
What did Lord Rama and Devi Sita's palace look like?
What sort of animals were found in this ancient land?
No one grows up in India untouched by the beautiful story of Lord Rama and Devi Sita. Every Dussehra we celebrate the victory of Rama over Ravana, the victory of good over evil. Every Deepavali, we commemorate the return of Rama and Sita to Ayodhya and hear the tale of how the entire city was lit up to receive their beloved king and queen. But is the magnificent capital of Ayodhya just limited to this?
Ayodhya was a renowned pilgrimage destination since the dawn of mankind, and after the birth of Lord Rama, it became a place of supreme importance for Hindus. Amazing Ayodhya is an attempt in gaining knowledge about this ancient city-its architecture, its design, its buildings and all the splendid details during the era when Lord Rama walked this earth. This splendidly researched book, replete with shlokas from the Valmiki Ramayana, offers authentic information about the city which will not only help understand the life and times of ancient Hindus but also the revered figures of Rama and Sita.
Replete with descriptions, author Neena Rai draws out comparisons of an earlier era with our current life and culture, thus connecting the past with the present. She further compares Ayodhya with the cultures of other ancient civilisations so that the reader feels 'connected' to the past and the content of the book appears 'contemporary'.
A fascinating account of an ancient city with significant contemporary relevance, Amazing Ayodhya is a must-read for a better understanding of history, scriptures and Hindu civilisation.
316 pages, Paperback
First published April 18, 2021
8 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 7, 2021
This book is unique on its own. This book goes on detail of how ancient Ayodhya city must be. Book is well researched. It heavily rely on Valmiki Ramayana and many other original sources. Book does have lot of illustrations and images. It deserve a read.
May 6, 2021
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
We all know about the background of Prabhu Sriramachandra, we have grown up hearing and reading about his principles and the reasons why he's called Maryada Purushottam but do we know what Ayodhya, his birth place, was like? Before and during his times?
This book authored by Neena Rai ji is the perfect portal into the ancient land of Ayodhya during the times of Ramachandra. Exciting right? It's a highly researched book produced during the times of covid 19 pandemic yet the author has done an excellent, if you ask me, more than an excellent work despite all the shortcomings.
The author has done a profound study for years as well as even learnt Samskruta to give the best work to her readers. She uses the original Valmiki Ramayana to take us back into the past and explain things so beautifully and simple that one could easily understand things better. She refers to the original text which is why I consider this book highly credible.
What I really loved about the writer is she not only inks what she knows and wants to convey but also makes it easier for the reader to grasp things better. As I said before she has used the original Ramayana she quotes the verses that are in Sanskrit and gives us the explanation so beautifully by breaking the Samskruta words and sentences. What more she also provides us visual pieces to get the idea. Thus she not only explains what Ayodhya was like she also helps the readers understand better and clearly by visualising. Our ancient cities weren't anything like our present ones, they were built as per the significant mathematical calculations. The same significance could be seen in the shapes and size of the houses of Ayodhya people (others too) but also the weaponry the land sported. Our ancestors followed everything that's better than ours although they didn't have any technological advancements we have. But we can't say no to the fact that they were advanced in their own ways and this books helps us to know how better.
'Exploring Ayodhya through the verses of Valmiki' is what the book is all about but that doesn't mean the author strictly sticks to Ramayana itself she lays foundations to his words through the other granthas, samhitas and other revered books of Hindu cosmology. This not only helps the reader get a better foundation but also helps them shed certain misinterpretations and faulty assumptions regarding the texts. This book can be read from a child to an elderly person and grasped very well. Such is the insight of the writer. She uses a very simplified English which facilitates the apprehension of the concepts clearer.
The author talks about the infrastructure of Ayodhya, she describes the way ancient land was guarded and looked after. She talks about the basic information regarding residents of Ayodhya. I realised the roads we have presently are nothing next to those which were there in the ancient times. The book focuses on the army strength the King Dasharatha sported and the pets and plants Rama's palace was adorned with. All the while the writer not only helps you understand Ayodhya better through the reference to Sage Valmiki but also know the general concepts like Vastu, vinyasa etc. Personally speaking, I didn't give much importance to them but the author helped me come out of many misassumptions. This book, if you ask me, is like a journey back into the past and know how things were like back in the times of Rama.
All the while the author does an excellent job quoting the shlokas, pointing at the mathematical and spiritual significance of each and every aspect. Although there was a few things that flew over my head the general concept was making its home in my mind: Our ancestors had better life styles, infrastructures than others.
Reading this book brings you closer to Rama, you will know more about the city he was born in, the people he ruled and looked after and the animals he had with him. The book serves instrumental in bunking a few misconceptions as well. We have various forms of Ramayana and the only accurate form is Valmiki's work, he stringed his words poetically beautiful yet staying true to what he was conveying, and Neena Rai Ji simplifies the little portion of it concerning the land of Ayodhya. I'm not calling it city or kingdom, there's a reason why and you'll know only when you read the book.
The book is the best book I've read this year so far. I really love the way the author bridges the book with the readers very well. It is evident that she wants the readers not only read it but work on the foundation she lays through her debute work and gain more knowledge.
The author also connects our ancient practices and concepts to the other ancient civilizations too. Her way of simplifying is something admirable. I loved this book. Knowing the demographic details about an individual would help us to know the person better and the author has filled in the gap easing the way for us.
Btw, the author also talks about Vimana shastra and quotes Vishnu Purana where it talks about the Kraumcha (curlew) dweepa (island/continent) which is surrounded by the ocean of churned buttermilk. Our ancestors had a way of unique description which comes out bit uncanny to the lay person however it's like grain whose cover should be taken out only to understand the meaning. If you want to know which continent, that is currently existing, the Vishnu Purana talks about you should definitely read this work because trust me your mind will be blown and you will absolutely love it!
Jai Siyaram 🧡
We all know about the background of Prabhu Sriramachandra, we have grown up hearing and reading about his principles and the reasons why he's called Maryada Purushottam but do we know what Ayodhya, his birth place, was like? Before and during his times?
This book authored by Neena Rai ji is the perfect portal into the ancient land of Ayodhya during the times of Ramachandra. Exciting right? It's a highly researched book produced during the times of covid 19 pandemic yet the author has done an excellent, if you ask me, more than an excellent work despite all the shortcomings.
The author has done a profound study for years as well as even learnt Samskruta to give the best work to her readers. She uses the original Valmiki Ramayana to take us back into the past and explain things so beautifully and simple that one could easily understand things better. She refers to the original text which is why I consider this book highly credible.
What I really loved about the writer is she not only inks what she knows and wants to convey but also makes it easier for the reader to grasp things better. As I said before she has used the original Ramayana she quotes the verses that are in Sanskrit and gives us the explanation so beautifully by breaking the Samskruta words and sentences. What more she also provides us visual pieces to get the idea. Thus she not only explains what Ayodhya was like she also helps the readers understand better and clearly by visualising. Our ancient cities weren't anything like our present ones, they were built as per the significant mathematical calculations. The same significance could be seen in the shapes and size of the houses of Ayodhya people (others too) but also the weaponry the land sported. Our ancestors followed everything that's better than ours although they didn't have any technological advancements we have. But we can't say no to the fact that they were advanced in their own ways and this books helps us to know how better.
'Exploring Ayodhya through the verses of Valmiki' is what the book is all about but that doesn't mean the author strictly sticks to Ramayana itself she lays foundations to his words through the other granthas, samhitas and other revered books of Hindu cosmology. This not only helps the reader get a better foundation but also helps them shed certain misinterpretations and faulty assumptions regarding the texts. This book can be read from a child to an elderly person and grasped very well. Such is the insight of the writer. She uses a very simplified English which facilitates the apprehension of the concepts clearer.
The author talks about the infrastructure of Ayodhya, she describes the way ancient land was guarded and looked after. She talks about the basic information regarding residents of Ayodhya. I realised the roads we have presently are nothing next to those which were there in the ancient times. The book focuses on the army strength the King Dasharatha sported and the pets and plants Rama's palace was adorned with. All the while the writer not only helps you understand Ayodhya better through the reference to Sage Valmiki but also know the general concepts like Vastu, vinyasa etc. Personally speaking, I didn't give much importance to them but the author helped me come out of many misassumptions. This book, if you ask me, is like a journey back into the past and know how things were like back in the times of Rama.
All the while the author does an excellent job quoting the shlokas, pointing at the mathematical and spiritual significance of each and every aspect. Although there was a few things that flew over my head the general concept was making its home in my mind: Our ancestors had better life styles, infrastructures than others.
Reading this book brings you closer to Rama, you will know more about the city he was born in, the people he ruled and looked after and the animals he had with him. The book serves instrumental in bunking a few misconceptions as well. We have various forms of Ramayana and the only accurate form is Valmiki's work, he stringed his words poetically beautiful yet staying true to what he was conveying, and Neena Rai Ji simplifies the little portion of it concerning the land of Ayodhya. I'm not calling it city or kingdom, there's a reason why and you'll know only when you read the book.
The book is the best book I've read this year so far. I really love the way the author bridges the book with the readers very well. It is evident that she wants the readers not only read it but work on the foundation she lays through her debute work and gain more knowledge.
The author also connects our ancient practices and concepts to the other ancient civilizations too. Her way of simplifying is something admirable. I loved this book. Knowing the demographic details about an individual would help us to know the person better and the author has filled in the gap easing the way for us.
Btw, the author also talks about Vimana shastra and quotes Vishnu Purana where it talks about the Kraumcha (curlew) dweepa (island/continent) which is surrounded by the ocean of churned buttermilk. Our ancestors had a way of unique description which comes out bit uncanny to the lay person however it's like grain whose cover should be taken out only to understand the meaning. If you want to know which continent, that is currently existing, the Vishnu Purana talks about you should definitely read this work because trust me your mind will be blown and you will absolutely love it!
Jai Siyaram 🧡
May 21, 2021
Amazing Ayodhya
Author : Neena Rai
Published By : @bloomsburyindia
I will begin the review by appreciating the efforts of the author in explaining in detail , the correct pronunciations of the Devanagari script (Script used fir languages like Sanskrit , Hindi , Marathi etc.) , the importance of the pronunciations . We all have heard that many things get lost in translation , the author has explained how many things can get lost in pronunciation as well. As the author is a Sanskrit scholar herself , she has explained Valmiki's words in ways i had never interpreted before.
The author has clearly done an immense amount of research and must be appreciated for the same. The book starts from Manu , who built the city of Ayodhya , and how talks about its Geographical , Architectural , Cultural and Ecological Aspects in great detail!
The author has tried her best to simply things down so that even a child can read the book , though i must admit that some things will need two or three readings to properly understand what's going on , or maybe that's just me. I will otherwise also recommend to read the book at a slow pace and cherish the reading experience. As the author describes the Ayodhya Nagari , you will feel like you are walking in the streets of Ayodhya itself.
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Shree Ram . Evert single person reading this person knows that. But the author goes beyond that very important detail . Explaining how the city came into being.
The book is divided into six parts .
Part One is about Ayodhya and how it came into being.
Part two and three talk about the Geographical Detail of Ayodhya and Kosala.
Part Three and Four are about the architectural details of the city and surroundings.
Part Five is about Ayodhyas Weaponry and defense approach , largely inspired by Kautilya's Arthshastra.
Part Six talks about Animals and Life in General in Ayodhya.
The writing and language is splendid and the book is cleverly and beautifully written . With parallels drawn to the current worls on a regular basis.
I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone , no matter the age , caste , religion , political stance etc.
Thank you @bloomsburyindia for the media copy
Jai Siya Ram .
Author : Neena Rai
Published By : @bloomsburyindia
I will begin the review by appreciating the efforts of the author in explaining in detail , the correct pronunciations of the Devanagari script (Script used fir languages like Sanskrit , Hindi , Marathi etc.) , the importance of the pronunciations . We all have heard that many things get lost in translation , the author has explained how many things can get lost in pronunciation as well. As the author is a Sanskrit scholar herself , she has explained Valmiki's words in ways i had never interpreted before.
The author has clearly done an immense amount of research and must be appreciated for the same. The book starts from Manu , who built the city of Ayodhya , and how talks about its Geographical , Architectural , Cultural and Ecological Aspects in great detail!
The author has tried her best to simply things down so that even a child can read the book , though i must admit that some things will need two or three readings to properly understand what's going on , or maybe that's just me. I will otherwise also recommend to read the book at a slow pace and cherish the reading experience. As the author describes the Ayodhya Nagari , you will feel like you are walking in the streets of Ayodhya itself.
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Shree Ram . Evert single person reading this person knows that. But the author goes beyond that very important detail . Explaining how the city came into being.
The book is divided into six parts .
Part One is about Ayodhya and how it came into being.
Part two and three talk about the Geographical Detail of Ayodhya and Kosala.
Part Three and Four are about the architectural details of the city and surroundings.
Part Five is about Ayodhyas Weaponry and defense approach , largely inspired by Kautilya's Arthshastra.
Part Six talks about Animals and Life in General in Ayodhya.
The writing and language is splendid and the book is cleverly and beautifully written . With parallels drawn to the current worls on a regular basis.
I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone , no matter the age , caste , religion , political stance etc.
Thank you @bloomsburyindia for the media copy
Jai Siya Ram .
May 10, 2021
Love this book.
June 2, 2021
BOOK REVIEW – “AMAZING AYODHYA” BY NEENA RAI
Col Shaili Sharma
We live in an age of instant gratification. Our attention spans are getting shorter. Thanks to social media, we like crisp doses of entertainment and are averse to watching 3-hour movies or reading thick novels. We want fast-paced and racy entertainment. In these times, to come across a non-fiction book delving into the history, architecture, lore and the times of Ayodhya, the ancient city of Treta Yug, is downright astounding. More so if the author is a millennial and an army brat.
Amazing Ayodhya, a 285-page, first book by Neena Rai is a thesis worthy of a doctorate. It is a book written by a young woman who deeply esteems India’s rich heritage and desires her countrymen and women to learn about their proud past. A much-researched work, Amazing Ayodhya, forces the reader to be amazed at the opulence, grandeur, size, technology and wisdom of that bygone era.
The book is very timely, coming as it does, at a time when Hinduism is seriously threatened by the combined onslaught of Islam, Christianity, Communism and Congress (ICCC) in India. Hinduism, the nursery of global civilisation, has been enviously attacked by ICCC for being too good, too rich and too advanced. Its scientific rituals and rites have been ridiculed as mumbo-jumbo and pooh-poohed by the pseudo-educated. The ICCC, over the last 8 centuries, has chipped away at Hinduism reducing it to a fractured faith with Hindus wallowing in self-pity and a deep sense of inferiority. After Independence, the Congress deliberately subjugated Hindus and Hinduism and promoted Islam and Muslims in India. This book is a timely attempt at reminding us of what we were and can become in future with the right guidance and leadership.
Written in a simple explanatory style and printed in an easy-to-read font, the book is suitable for readers of all ages. In fact, it is eminently suitable to be prescribed in high school and college curricula for its educational value. The book is a narration of how Ayodhya was when it was at the zenith of her glory. Neena Rai has made no attempt to impart her own interpretation to the narrative extracted from Sanskrit texts, mostly the Valmiki Ramayan and other authentic sources. Presented like a dissertation, the book acknowledges the sources of every piece of information, shlok, quote or illustration. Copiously illustrated, the book covers all aspects of Ayodhya including the layout, defence arrangements, architecture, flora, fauna and armaments. Also, Neena Rai has linked Ayodhya with the contemporary (and later) civilisations of the world, highlighting similarities between the designs, architecture and rites and rituals of places as far apart as Egypt, Thailand, Cambodia and Peru. It suggests the vast and widespread influence of Hinduism in that era.
The best part of the book is the Afterword where the author comes into her own, narrating her life experiences in a flowing and grabbing style - quite different from the teaching-style adopted in the main text of the book. Neena Rai displays excellent knowledge not just of the subject at hand, also of related subjects like architecture, science of warfare, armament, botany, ornithology and geography etc.
Being a first book and published in times of the pandemic, the book does suffer from some drawbacks most of which germinate from hasty proof-reading and printer’s devils. All books are teachers. The reader learns new words, spellings, usages, grammar etc while enjoying any book, even a novel. So, typos or errors in spellings (both in English and in Sanskrit) leave an avoidable sore impression. The big disappointments are the illustrations which should have been clearer and with larger resolution. Pictures of pictures with dark background and shrunk fonts have robbed the illustrations of clarity.
The aim of the book would have been better served if the author had not confined herself to narration and explanation only. Considering her vast knowledge and deep research, the author should have drawn her own conclusions, whether congruent or at variance with the conclusions of the other researchers quoted by her. Such jousting of cerebral ideas would have enriched the deductions in the book. As an example, shataghnii could be interpreted as a samaas (compound word) of shat - meaning “100” and ghna - meaning “to kill”. Thus shataghnii could mean “killer of 100 (enemies)”. It could also mean shatak (100) + agni (fire) ie a “hundred fires” !
Like her drawings of the Koota Shalmilii the author could have resorted to artist’s impressions of the layout of Ayodhya, her defence arrangements, palaces, gardens and weapons etc based on the descriptions given in the shloks. These would have been a better depiction of how Ayodhya really was than pictures of comparable structures from faraway places.
A chapter could have been devoted to the obvious question – what happened to Ayodhya and where are her ruins now? Especially since the buildings in Ayodhya were at least seven stories high and Ayodhya was comparable to modern day New York / Tokyo in area? Considering her vast area and volume, Ayodhya’s ruins should be visible even now, like the ruins of Pompeii, Mohen Jo Daro and Harappa. The author could have attempted to explain why the ruins have disappeared.
All in all, Amazing Ayodhya is an excellent work, very timely and hugely recommended to be read by all interested in ancient history, architecture and theology. The book warrants translation into Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Telugu to enhance its reach to more readers in India.
India badly needs more books from Neena Rai.
Col Shaili Sharma
We live in an age of instant gratification. Our attention spans are getting shorter. Thanks to social media, we like crisp doses of entertainment and are averse to watching 3-hour movies or reading thick novels. We want fast-paced and racy entertainment. In these times, to come across a non-fiction book delving into the history, architecture, lore and the times of Ayodhya, the ancient city of Treta Yug, is downright astounding. More so if the author is a millennial and an army brat.
Amazing Ayodhya, a 285-page, first book by Neena Rai is a thesis worthy of a doctorate. It is a book written by a young woman who deeply esteems India’s rich heritage and desires her countrymen and women to learn about their proud past. A much-researched work, Amazing Ayodhya, forces the reader to be amazed at the opulence, grandeur, size, technology and wisdom of that bygone era.
The book is very timely, coming as it does, at a time when Hinduism is seriously threatened by the combined onslaught of Islam, Christianity, Communism and Congress (ICCC) in India. Hinduism, the nursery of global civilisation, has been enviously attacked by ICCC for being too good, too rich and too advanced. Its scientific rituals and rites have been ridiculed as mumbo-jumbo and pooh-poohed by the pseudo-educated. The ICCC, over the last 8 centuries, has chipped away at Hinduism reducing it to a fractured faith with Hindus wallowing in self-pity and a deep sense of inferiority. After Independence, the Congress deliberately subjugated Hindus and Hinduism and promoted Islam and Muslims in India. This book is a timely attempt at reminding us of what we were and can become in future with the right guidance and leadership.
Written in a simple explanatory style and printed in an easy-to-read font, the book is suitable for readers of all ages. In fact, it is eminently suitable to be prescribed in high school and college curricula for its educational value. The book is a narration of how Ayodhya was when it was at the zenith of her glory. Neena Rai has made no attempt to impart her own interpretation to the narrative extracted from Sanskrit texts, mostly the Valmiki Ramayan and other authentic sources. Presented like a dissertation, the book acknowledges the sources of every piece of information, shlok, quote or illustration. Copiously illustrated, the book covers all aspects of Ayodhya including the layout, defence arrangements, architecture, flora, fauna and armaments. Also, Neena Rai has linked Ayodhya with the contemporary (and later) civilisations of the world, highlighting similarities between the designs, architecture and rites and rituals of places as far apart as Egypt, Thailand, Cambodia and Peru. It suggests the vast and widespread influence of Hinduism in that era.
The best part of the book is the Afterword where the author comes into her own, narrating her life experiences in a flowing and grabbing style - quite different from the teaching-style adopted in the main text of the book. Neena Rai displays excellent knowledge not just of the subject at hand, also of related subjects like architecture, science of warfare, armament, botany, ornithology and geography etc.
Being a first book and published in times of the pandemic, the book does suffer from some drawbacks most of which germinate from hasty proof-reading and printer’s devils. All books are teachers. The reader learns new words, spellings, usages, grammar etc while enjoying any book, even a novel. So, typos or errors in spellings (both in English and in Sanskrit) leave an avoidable sore impression. The big disappointments are the illustrations which should have been clearer and with larger resolution. Pictures of pictures with dark background and shrunk fonts have robbed the illustrations of clarity.
The aim of the book would have been better served if the author had not confined herself to narration and explanation only. Considering her vast knowledge and deep research, the author should have drawn her own conclusions, whether congruent or at variance with the conclusions of the other researchers quoted by her. Such jousting of cerebral ideas would have enriched the deductions in the book. As an example, shataghnii could be interpreted as a samaas (compound word) of shat - meaning “100” and ghna - meaning “to kill”. Thus shataghnii could mean “killer of 100 (enemies)”. It could also mean shatak (100) + agni (fire) ie a “hundred fires” !
Like her drawings of the Koota Shalmilii the author could have resorted to artist’s impressions of the layout of Ayodhya, her defence arrangements, palaces, gardens and weapons etc based on the descriptions given in the shloks. These would have been a better depiction of how Ayodhya really was than pictures of comparable structures from faraway places.
A chapter could have been devoted to the obvious question – what happened to Ayodhya and where are her ruins now? Especially since the buildings in Ayodhya were at least seven stories high and Ayodhya was comparable to modern day New York / Tokyo in area? Considering her vast area and volume, Ayodhya’s ruins should be visible even now, like the ruins of Pompeii, Mohen Jo Daro and Harappa. The author could have attempted to explain why the ruins have disappeared.
All in all, Amazing Ayodhya is an excellent work, very timely and hugely recommended to be read by all interested in ancient history, architecture and theology. The book warrants translation into Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Telugu to enhance its reach to more readers in India.
India badly needs more books from Neena Rai.
June 6, 2021
‘ Ayodhya naam nagri asit loka vishrutaa
Manuna maanava Indrena, ya puri nirmitaa svayam ‘
Amazing Ayodhya is a fascinating, all encompassing account of the world famous city of Ayodhya by the budding Author Nina Rai, daughter of an illustrious Army Veteran General Rai
The Book is divided into Six Parts. Dwelling into the era when Lord Rama walked the earth , the Book practically answers all the questions , which one may have regarding the splendid Ancient City
Ayodhya / Kingdom of Kosala was actually an Empire. Ruled by the most able Ruler of his times , King Dashrath and later Lord Rama, it was the most prosperous, most well guarded Kingdom. Nobody was poor in ‘Ram Rajya’ . Everybody had sufficient, rather surplus. What was intriguing, is to note
A) The scientific design of the City which beats the Modern day Architecture hands down.
B) The Mysterious Weapon ‘ Shatagni ‘ that had the capability to kill 100s of enemies at a time , that was used to protect the Kingdom, which has a striking resemblance with the modern day weapon system.
The Author has done years of research, since 2016 , when She started learning Sanskrit to arrive at this Book. Replete with Shlokas and images, ‘ Amazing Ayodhya ‘ is a must read for every Proud Hindu
The Book comes with a Blessing. I suggest , one should buy and read the Book First Hand for the ‘ Phal Shruti ‘. I personally have been benefitted , since the time I got this Book and thus the reason for this Review. I wish Health Wealth and Happiness for everybody who reads this Book and chants .. Jai Shri Ram
‘ Those desirous of possessing wealth will be Blessed with riches
Those desirous of having children will be Blessed with children
Those desirous of kingship, will be enthroned with it
Those desirous of victory, will be rewarded by subjugation of enemies ‘
May the glory of Lord Rama and his consort Devi Sita, forever be recited. May all devotees rejoice in freeing of the Birth Place of Ram Lalla. May Ayodhya return to its former splendour. May Ram Raj return to India .. Jai Shri Ram
Manuna maanava Indrena, ya puri nirmitaa svayam ‘
Amazing Ayodhya is a fascinating, all encompassing account of the world famous city of Ayodhya by the budding Author Nina Rai, daughter of an illustrious Army Veteran General Rai
The Book is divided into Six Parts. Dwelling into the era when Lord Rama walked the earth , the Book practically answers all the questions , which one may have regarding the splendid Ancient City
Ayodhya / Kingdom of Kosala was actually an Empire. Ruled by the most able Ruler of his times , King Dashrath and later Lord Rama, it was the most prosperous, most well guarded Kingdom. Nobody was poor in ‘Ram Rajya’ . Everybody had sufficient, rather surplus. What was intriguing, is to note
A) The scientific design of the City which beats the Modern day Architecture hands down.
B) The Mysterious Weapon ‘ Shatagni ‘ that had the capability to kill 100s of enemies at a time , that was used to protect the Kingdom, which has a striking resemblance with the modern day weapon system.
The Author has done years of research, since 2016 , when She started learning Sanskrit to arrive at this Book. Replete with Shlokas and images, ‘ Amazing Ayodhya ‘ is a must read for every Proud Hindu
The Book comes with a Blessing. I suggest , one should buy and read the Book First Hand for the ‘ Phal Shruti ‘. I personally have been benefitted , since the time I got this Book and thus the reason for this Review. I wish Health Wealth and Happiness for everybody who reads this Book and chants .. Jai Shri Ram
‘ Those desirous of possessing wealth will be Blessed with riches
Those desirous of having children will be Blessed with children
Those desirous of kingship, will be enthroned with it
Those desirous of victory, will be rewarded by subjugation of enemies ‘
May the glory of Lord Rama and his consort Devi Sita, forever be recited. May all devotees rejoice in freeing of the Birth Place of Ram Lalla. May Ayodhya return to its former splendour. May Ram Raj return to India .. Jai Shri Ram
June 15, 2021
"In order to understand the avatars we worship, it is often important to understand how the life and times were in their yuga" - Neena Rai
- I couldn't agree more with the quote above! All Indians are aware of Bhagwan Shri Ram and Mata Sita. Bhagwan Ram was the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu and was a celebrated King of his time. The book is based on the time-honored, sophisticated, and magnificent city - Ayodhya, where the epic Ramayan takes place.
- The book begins with a transliteration guide which is unique, as I have seldom come across it in other informative reads. It helps the reader understand and grasp the right pronunciation of words, especially the ones in Sanskrit.
- The author then takes us straight into the world of Ram Janmbhumi, effectively explaining the vastness of the city, not just in terms of its size but also its prosperity. She expounds on its geographical, architectural, and cultural values. She dwells deeply into the establishment, shape, size, roadways, and palaces of the city. She further talks about the animals and birds that existed in those times and their importance.
- This is an extensively researched book with intensive referenced resources of maps, charts, diagrams, and shlokas that will set your imagination in motion, and take you straight into the ancient city. The shlokas from the Valmiki Ramayan and other authentic scriptures such as Bhagwad Gita makes the book an intriguing read.
- With her elucidating narration, the author has attempted to connect the readers with their past in a way that speaks to the modern generation. Being highly informative in nature, this book should be read at a slow pace to appreciate the knowledge that it holds.
A strongly recommended read for all the proud Hindus who wish to connect more with their dharm through the path of knowledge.
- I couldn't agree more with the quote above! All Indians are aware of Bhagwan Shri Ram and Mata Sita. Bhagwan Ram was the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu and was a celebrated King of his time. The book is based on the time-honored, sophisticated, and magnificent city - Ayodhya, where the epic Ramayan takes place.
- The book begins with a transliteration guide which is unique, as I have seldom come across it in other informative reads. It helps the reader understand and grasp the right pronunciation of words, especially the ones in Sanskrit.
- The author then takes us straight into the world of Ram Janmbhumi, effectively explaining the vastness of the city, not just in terms of its size but also its prosperity. She expounds on its geographical, architectural, and cultural values. She dwells deeply into the establishment, shape, size, roadways, and palaces of the city. She further talks about the animals and birds that existed in those times and their importance.
- This is an extensively researched book with intensive referenced resources of maps, charts, diagrams, and shlokas that will set your imagination in motion, and take you straight into the ancient city. The shlokas from the Valmiki Ramayan and other authentic scriptures such as Bhagwad Gita makes the book an intriguing read.
- With her elucidating narration, the author has attempted to connect the readers with their past in a way that speaks to the modern generation. Being highly informative in nature, this book should be read at a slow pace to appreciate the knowledge that it holds.
A strongly recommended read for all the proud Hindus who wish to connect more with their dharm through the path of knowledge.
January 27, 2022
‘Ayodhya’ -The birthplace of Lord Rama. Everyone knows that. What else do we know about it?…. Haa yes, the people of Ayodhya lighted lamps and decorated the entire city with diyas on ‘Amavasya’ to welcome Lord Rama and Sita Devi after serving 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana. We never thought about Ayodhya beyond these details. But the author took a step further and explained everything about Ayodhya, not leaving behind any minute detail.
She explains who established Ayodhya and when, its shape, size and population, architecture, weaponry and defence system, animals and birds of Ayodhya, pets at Rama’s palace and much more. She also delineates why Ayodhya has always been famous all over the world. Before taking us to a conclusion, the author makes us analyze along with her the few texts of the epic, understand the significance of mentioning those details and how it leads to the truth.
At the beginning of the book, the author has provided a transliteration guide and also states its importance. There are several pictures, maps and charts which makes it easy for us to visualize everything that she explains. It is evident that the author has put great effort and done phenomenal research to be able to explain all these things in the simplest way that’s possible.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
She explains who established Ayodhya and when, its shape, size and population, architecture, weaponry and defence system, animals and birds of Ayodhya, pets at Rama’s palace and much more. She also delineates why Ayodhya has always been famous all over the world. Before taking us to a conclusion, the author makes us analyze along with her the few texts of the epic, understand the significance of mentioning those details and how it leads to the truth.
At the beginning of the book, the author has provided a transliteration guide and also states its importance. There are several pictures, maps and charts which makes it easy for us to visualize everything that she explains. It is evident that the author has put great effort and done phenomenal research to be able to explain all these things in the simplest way that’s possible.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
December 26, 2023
Itihasas hold a special place in the pantheon of literature works created across the globe. Ramayana as an epic is revered and worshipped by millions across the globe. It is natural that any book remotely related to Ramayana or its subsidiary details would evoke a special interest across believers in the world. Considering the current context where a new Mandir is being created, Ayodhya has a special place in everyone’s prayers and heart. This book about Ayodhya is certain to pique the interest of Bhaktas wide and across, just purely because of the title.
The author has gone to great lengths to explain the context in which this book came about. While the intent to explain the background and rationale in which this book came about, personally I felt it was a little dragged too much as it becomes border line self glorification. This could have been made much crispier for consumption. The author has also provided a good set of background references with Valmiki Ramayan being the sole major reference for the book, which is an excellent decision in my opinion.
In the introduction, the author has quoted that Luv and Kush sang the Ramayana composed by Rsi Valmiki. The verses quoted from Bala Kanda, Sarga 5 are indeed narrated by the prodigious sons of Sri Rama. However, from an accuracy point of view, the first recantation of Ramayana starts in the very first sarga of Bala Kanda where Narada narrates the story of Sri Rama to Valmiki. While Ayodhya description starts from the context of Luv and Kush, Ramayana is narrated in its entirety multiple times across the epic. Just a technicality to note.
In the chapter on Manu, the author has claimed that Ramayana was created in the Treta Yuga of the current cycle. This is not a correct observation when cross-verified with other Puranas. Skanda Purana, Prabhasa Kanda, Prabhasa Kshetra Mahatmya, Chapter 19 clearly provides the date for Ramayana with Rama and his preceptor / Guru Vasishta. When Ishwara is narrating the various avataras of Maha Vishnu, the explains the time in which Jamadagneya (Parashu Rama) followed by Rama were born on the earth and the reasons for their birth. The following verse clearly indicates the timing of Ramayana as Treta of 24th Chatur Yuga [2]
चतुर्विंशे युगे रामो वसिष्ठेन पुरोधासः |
सप्तमो रावणस्यार्थे जाज्ने दशरथात्मजः || 75 ||
Caturvinśē yugē rāmō vasiṣṭhēna purōdhasā |
saptamō rāvaṇasyārthē jajñē daśarathātmajaḥ || 75 ||
The author in the page 7 mentions that “In each Maha Yuga of a manvanthara, a minimum of 10 avataras of Maha Vishnu appear on earth to protect Dharma and the righteous”. While there are many scholars have explained a concept of recurring Itihasas, we need to consider the current proof at hand i.e. Puranas and Itihasas themselves. Sri Krishna’s advise to Arjuna about Dharma धर्मसंस्थापनार्थाय सम्भवामि युगे युगे || doesn’t necessarily mean that Maha Vishnu will adorn an avatara every Yuga. In the context of Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Sri Krishna is sharing his omnipresence by stating that whenever there is a decline in Dharma and increase in Adharma, he would be descend to re-establish Dharma. However, this is not to be considered that every Yuga would have an avatar of Sri Krishna. Maha Vishnu may take avataras or could have amsha avatars or aveshas across time for various purposes. The readers are recommended to consider Krishna by Bhagwan Das which explains this concept clearly. Dasha avatara i.e. 10 avataras is one perspective. However, if we consider Srimad Bhagwatham, there are 24 major avataras. Hence, it may not be prudent to quantify / define boundaries on the avataras per se.
In the past, few authors would equate or compare the Hindu Itihasas and Puranas with Abrahamic religions to reach a wider audience. However, in this book, the author’s equivalence of Swayumbhuva Manu and his wife to Adam and Eve, certainly could have been avoided. Similarly the equivalence of Vaivaswatha Manu to Noah is yet another example. I certainly wished that the author hadn’t pursued on this path.
In page 16, the author has elaborated on the crown that was used for the coronation of Sri Rama. The description is a verbatim reproduction of the content from http://www.valmikiramayan.net/utf8/yu... verses 64-68. I wish there was some sort of cross reference provided to avoid potential complications in future. This is not one off, but is an often repeated pattern across the book (another example: 1.5.6 translation in Page 29). Finally, in page 62, the author does credit the creator of the site http://www.valmikiramayan.net/ while quoting the description of Yojana.
In the entire description of Manu and his connection with Ayodhya, the author didn’t include a potentially important aspect from Bala Kanda itself. In sarga 70, verse 21, Ikshvaku who is the son of Manu is established to be the king of Ayodhya. While the focus on Manu and various attributes is commendable, Ikshvaku needs additional mention beyond being the progenitor of Solar Dynasty / Suryavamsha.
मनुः प्रजापतिः पूर्वमिक्ष्वाकुश्च मनोः सुतः |
तमिक्ष्वाकुमयोध्यायां राजानं विद्धि पूर्वकम् || १-७०-२१
I find that the author digresses from the main topic and delves into the etymology of words beyond a certain limit. The main focus of Ayodhya and Ramayana is lost to the origins of the word like Puri and how one dictionary relates this to Puri of Pani Puri fame. Quite frankly, instead of relying on some websites, if one refers to any forum that employs a traditional dictionary like Shabdakosha or Apte Sanskrit Dictionary or Monier-Williams, we can find more meaningful examples (Example: https://ambuda.org/texts/ramayanam/1.5 - please select puri in verse 6 and choose the aforementioned dictionaries).
While describing the splendour of Ayodhya and trying to establish Kosala as an empire, the author quotes few verses from couple of Sargas in Bala Kanda. However, the author relies more on the literal translation and considers the same to be the actual meaning instead of considering the same as poetic metaphors to mean a slightly different entity. For example,
तां सत्यनामां दृढतोरणार्गलाम्
गृहैर्विचित्रैरुपशोभितां शिवाम् |
पुरीमयोध्यां नृसहस्रसंकुलाम्
शशास वै शक्रसमो महीपतिः || १-६-२८
In this verse, the author considers Sahasra as thousand and hence, mentions “1,000 provincial kings are in Ayodhya Purii”. There are translations where the same word is translated as “thousands” to indicate a fairly large number than an accurate 1000 number.
In Page 51, where the author is describing Dasaratha’s description of Kosala’s empire, there is a commentary about this verse, where the author argues that Prachinaah should be replaced by Dravidah.
यावदावर्त ते चक्रं तावती मे वसुन्धरा || २-१०-३६
प्राचीनाः सिन्धुसौवीराः सौराष्ट्रा दक्षिणापथाः |
वङ्गाङ्गमगधा मत्स्याः समृद्धाः काशिकोसलाः || २-१०-३७
It’s true that Gita Press edition indeed captures Dravidah instead of Prachinaah, but the meaning of the 2 words and objectives thereof are entirely different. The author tries to impress that Dravidah is required to indicate southern territories, but Dakshinapatha is already present. Prachinaah indicates Eastern territories as captured by the website widely referenced by author too. The same is also cross-referenced with a popular Kannada version which also includes Prachinaah with the meaning of eastern territories. I couldn’t understand the rationale for the author’s affirmation that the correct shloka would read : dravidah Sindhu sauviirah Saurashtrah dakshinapathah. In page 53, the author again reiterates that prachinaah is not factually accurate. The argument is found further down where the author impresses upon the reader that since Videha (in-law kingdom of Sri Rama) was east of Kosala, Dasaratha couldn’t have any eastern frontiers. This could be considered different based on the point of reference. For example, if one considers Ayodhya, the capital as the reference, surely there would be regions (may not be named majorly) that could be bordering Videha. I am a little perplexed about the reasons for rejecting Prachinaah meaning eastern just because Videha is north-eastern to Kosala.
To the author’s credit, I did really appreciate the discussion on the Yojana calculation and reasons for the difference between the most commonly held calculation vs Prabhupada’s definition. This is one section which is fleshed out with good details. However, beyond a point, the author does diverge away from the main topic delving into the dietary habits of Dutch and reasons for their tall height. While trying to establish that the average height of the populace in Ramayana period was greater than 6 ft, the author equates the dietary choices of Dutch with those in Ramayana period. Quite frankly, I am puzzled at these equivalences between a modern data point and quite an ancient data point. As a contrarian point, if Bharatiyas are fed with the same diet today, will they grow to be 7 feet tall?
The section on the moats surrounding Ayodhya and the girdle of trees is quite interesting and informative. The author’s extensive research is well presented to reaffirm the idea. In Page 79, while elaborating on उद्यान-आम्रवण-उपेताम् महतीम् साल-मेखलाम्, the author has translated साल as Sal Tree. Monier-Williams dictionary does provide Sal as one of the translation options. However, in the context, if we refer to Gita Press or other translations, साल is employed to mean generic tree as outlined by Shabdakosha and not a specific variety of the same. The author doesn’t elaborate on the nuances and just presents the Sal tree version. The explanation on kardhani / kamarband is quite unnecessary in the context of the discussion.
There is a recurring pattern in each of the chapters. The author picks up a context (ex: buildings of Ayodhya), considers the verses from Valmiki Ramayana, getting into the specifics of the wordplay and summarising the meaning. However, the discussion diverges into other unrelated topics like gold platting to European invaders taking gold from Peru temples to Tutankhamen’s tomb. These additional details, though informative, derail the reading flow and spoils the overall experience. I wish the author had perhaps considered to keep the addendums to a bare minimum introducing only the relevant ones, which would augment the narrative than becoming a general knowledge exposition.
In the chapter on Shape and Structure of residences, the author comments that “The Matsya Purana, incidentally, contains the story of Manu and his descendants Dasharatha and Sri Rama.” To qualify as Purana, there are 5 lakshanas / requirements of sort, one of which is to encapsulate the vamshacharitha or historical account of both Suryavamsha (Solar Dynasty) and Chandravamsha (Lunar Dynasty). All Puranas need to satisfy these 5 lakshanas to qualify as Purana. Quoting from Matsya Purana,
सर्गश्च प्रतिसर्गश्च वंशो मन्वन्तराणि च । वंश्यानुचरितं चैव पुराणं पञ्चलक्षणम्
In the same chapter, the author describes the various vimanas, their architecture and inferences thereof in great detail. Though deviating from the original topic, this is a well written section which is very informative to the reader.
In Page 126, quoting the author, “The closest we can get to deciphering Vimaanas is to go by the descriptions in the Vimanika Shastra” and further summarises that Pushpaka Vimana was a Sakuma Vimana. Valmiki Ramayana has quite an interesting and detailed description of Pushpaka Vimana. In Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 121, verses 23 - 28 describe the splendour of Pushpaka Vimana in great detail. I am a little surprised that the author didn’t capture this detail in her description.
In page 143, the author mentions that Kaikeyi, while being the favourite queen of Dasharatha, wanted her son Bharatha to inherit the throne and asked for Prince Rama to be banished for 14 years. This is a very narrow view without considering the overall context and events leading to this situation. In Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 7, when Manthara tries to poison Kaikeyi’s mind, this is her first response:
रामे वा भरते वाहं विशेषं नोपलक्षये |
तस्मात्तुष्टास्मि यद्राजा रामं राज्येऽभिषेक्ष्यति || २-७-३५
"I do not see any difference between Rama and Bharata. That is why, I am happy that Rama is being anointed for crown by the king."
When Kaikeyi had a motherly love and affection for Sri Rama, I wonder why the author took a very narrow view on this topic. Coincidentally, the author has quoted the first verse from the same sarga, but didn’t consider the more important one for the context. While the quoted incident is factually correct over time, the author has the onus to set the context for those who are not familiar with the epic.
While describing the splendour of Kaikeyi’s palace, I am quite shocked to read the equivalence of Valmiki’s description to a modern day contraption, Bar. I mean a Bar in Treta Yuga. I am quite shocked !!! Ref: Page 154 of the book.
Throughout the book, the author keeps referring to her Sangam Talks multiple times. Beyond a limit, this becomes a point of irritation and sort of self aggrandisement, which certainly could have been avoided. The pictures on Page 166 are in monochrome, which defeats the purpose as the author is trying to explain the unique feature of each of the variants, with colour being a dominant feature to distinguish. The prices from the website is another detail that could have been avoided as it doesn’t serve any purpose in the book.
In page 172, the author comments that Lord Rama was specifically trained in the use of baaNa or bow. baaNa is the word for arrow. Dhanus or specifically Kodanda is the word for Bow. Hence, Sri Rama is also known as Kodanda Rama.
In page 194, the author tries to provide a description of Shatagnii from Brahmanda Purana. This is actually a reproduction of content from this page https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/... where Dṛṣadvara is replaced by Shataghnii. However, there is no reference that connects Dṛṣadvara and Shatagnii.
In page 233, while describing the horses brought into Ayodhya vide this verse
कांभोजविषये जातैर्बाह्लीकैश्च हयोत्तमैः |
वनायुजैर्नदीजैश्च पूर्णा हरिहयोत्तमैः || १-६-२२
The author makes a note that river bed horses are Hippopotamus. In both valmikiramayan.net which the author has frequently derived from or the Gita Press translation, it is clear that the above verse means horses born at the place where rivers flowed. I am not sure if naadijaaH would only mean Hippopotamus, but the author certainly considers this to be the case and writes a few more pages, getting into the discovery of an ancient fossil.
In the concluding part of the book, the author takes a verse from Sri Rama Pattabhisheka and uses the same as Phalasruthi. Personally, I am little flabbergasted and aghast about modern authors claiming Phalasruthi for their works, which at best are commentaries or observations. However, when I did discuss with my friend cum mentor, he did mention that owing to the book, we try to read Ramayana in original form and hence, the original phala would be accrued, albeit in a round about manner. Yet, I personally do wish that the author didn’t include this part in the book.
Some cosmetic issues:
- In page 14, the author quotes the name of the chapter 4 from Srimad Bhagwad Gita as Jyana Yoga instead of Jnana Yoga.
- The choice of font could have been better. 10 comes across as IO, which is awkward. (Ex: Page 172)
Ending note
As a reviewer, I would have certain expectations and the above is a honest opinion on what I found as compared to my expectations i.e. enthralling journey through the very divine Ayodhya. While reviewing and critiquing a book is easy as there is a material to analyse, creating the same requires a lot of effort and dedication. I fully respect the author for her extensive research, referencing various books on Vasatu Shasta, Arthasastra etc.
I do have my own differences on certain content and flow of the book. There is a lot of content from public websites which are quoted as views and observations here. I would recommend this book only to rank beginners. However, for real asaktas, I would highly recommending investing in the Gita Press edition and reading through the same.
Reviewer’s References:
1. Ramayan http://valmikiramayan.pcriot.com/
2. Skanda Purana extract: https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/bo...
3. Ramayan with word meanings : https://ambuda.org/texts/ramayanam/
4. Srimad Valmiki Ramayana (Kannada) - Gita Press
5. Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam (Kannada) - Vid. N. Ranganatha Sharma
Recommended Reading:
1. Krishna - Bhagwan Das
2. Srimad Valmiki Ramayana - Gita Press edition with shlokas and meaning
The author has gone to great lengths to explain the context in which this book came about. While the intent to explain the background and rationale in which this book came about, personally I felt it was a little dragged too much as it becomes border line self glorification. This could have been made much crispier for consumption. The author has also provided a good set of background references with Valmiki Ramayan being the sole major reference for the book, which is an excellent decision in my opinion.
In the introduction, the author has quoted that Luv and Kush sang the Ramayana composed by Rsi Valmiki. The verses quoted from Bala Kanda, Sarga 5 are indeed narrated by the prodigious sons of Sri Rama. However, from an accuracy point of view, the first recantation of Ramayana starts in the very first sarga of Bala Kanda where Narada narrates the story of Sri Rama to Valmiki. While Ayodhya description starts from the context of Luv and Kush, Ramayana is narrated in its entirety multiple times across the epic. Just a technicality to note.
In the chapter on Manu, the author has claimed that Ramayana was created in the Treta Yuga of the current cycle. This is not a correct observation when cross-verified with other Puranas. Skanda Purana, Prabhasa Kanda, Prabhasa Kshetra Mahatmya, Chapter 19 clearly provides the date for Ramayana with Rama and his preceptor / Guru Vasishta. When Ishwara is narrating the various avataras of Maha Vishnu, the explains the time in which Jamadagneya (Parashu Rama) followed by Rama were born on the earth and the reasons for their birth. The following verse clearly indicates the timing of Ramayana as Treta of 24th Chatur Yuga [2]
चतुर्विंशे युगे रामो वसिष्ठेन पुरोधासः |
सप्तमो रावणस्यार्थे जाज्ने दशरथात्मजः || 75 ||
Caturvinśē yugē rāmō vasiṣṭhēna purōdhasā |
saptamō rāvaṇasyārthē jajñē daśarathātmajaḥ || 75 ||
The author in the page 7 mentions that “In each Maha Yuga of a manvanthara, a minimum of 10 avataras of Maha Vishnu appear on earth to protect Dharma and the righteous”. While there are many scholars have explained a concept of recurring Itihasas, we need to consider the current proof at hand i.e. Puranas and Itihasas themselves. Sri Krishna’s advise to Arjuna about Dharma धर्मसंस्थापनार्थाय सम्भवामि युगे युगे || doesn’t necessarily mean that Maha Vishnu will adorn an avatara every Yuga. In the context of Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Sri Krishna is sharing his omnipresence by stating that whenever there is a decline in Dharma and increase in Adharma, he would be descend to re-establish Dharma. However, this is not to be considered that every Yuga would have an avatar of Sri Krishna. Maha Vishnu may take avataras or could have amsha avatars or aveshas across time for various purposes. The readers are recommended to consider Krishna by Bhagwan Das which explains this concept clearly. Dasha avatara i.e. 10 avataras is one perspective. However, if we consider Srimad Bhagwatham, there are 24 major avataras. Hence, it may not be prudent to quantify / define boundaries on the avataras per se.
In the past, few authors would equate or compare the Hindu Itihasas and Puranas with Abrahamic religions to reach a wider audience. However, in this book, the author’s equivalence of Swayumbhuva Manu and his wife to Adam and Eve, certainly could have been avoided. Similarly the equivalence of Vaivaswatha Manu to Noah is yet another example. I certainly wished that the author hadn’t pursued on this path.
In page 16, the author has elaborated on the crown that was used for the coronation of Sri Rama. The description is a verbatim reproduction of the content from http://www.valmikiramayan.net/utf8/yu... verses 64-68. I wish there was some sort of cross reference provided to avoid potential complications in future. This is not one off, but is an often repeated pattern across the book (another example: 1.5.6 translation in Page 29). Finally, in page 62, the author does credit the creator of the site http://www.valmikiramayan.net/ while quoting the description of Yojana.
In the entire description of Manu and his connection with Ayodhya, the author didn’t include a potentially important aspect from Bala Kanda itself. In sarga 70, verse 21, Ikshvaku who is the son of Manu is established to be the king of Ayodhya. While the focus on Manu and various attributes is commendable, Ikshvaku needs additional mention beyond being the progenitor of Solar Dynasty / Suryavamsha.
मनुः प्रजापतिः पूर्वमिक्ष्वाकुश्च मनोः सुतः |
तमिक्ष्वाकुमयोध्यायां राजानं विद्धि पूर्वकम् || १-७०-२१
I find that the author digresses from the main topic and delves into the etymology of words beyond a certain limit. The main focus of Ayodhya and Ramayana is lost to the origins of the word like Puri and how one dictionary relates this to Puri of Pani Puri fame. Quite frankly, instead of relying on some websites, if one refers to any forum that employs a traditional dictionary like Shabdakosha or Apte Sanskrit Dictionary or Monier-Williams, we can find more meaningful examples (Example: https://ambuda.org/texts/ramayanam/1.5 - please select puri in verse 6 and choose the aforementioned dictionaries).
While describing the splendour of Ayodhya and trying to establish Kosala as an empire, the author quotes few verses from couple of Sargas in Bala Kanda. However, the author relies more on the literal translation and considers the same to be the actual meaning instead of considering the same as poetic metaphors to mean a slightly different entity. For example,
तां सत्यनामां दृढतोरणार्गलाम्
गृहैर्विचित्रैरुपशोभितां शिवाम् |
पुरीमयोध्यां नृसहस्रसंकुलाम्
शशास वै शक्रसमो महीपतिः || १-६-२८
In this verse, the author considers Sahasra as thousand and hence, mentions “1,000 provincial kings are in Ayodhya Purii”. There are translations where the same word is translated as “thousands” to indicate a fairly large number than an accurate 1000 number.
In Page 51, where the author is describing Dasaratha’s description of Kosala’s empire, there is a commentary about this verse, where the author argues that Prachinaah should be replaced by Dravidah.
यावदावर्त ते चक्रं तावती मे वसुन्धरा || २-१०-३६
प्राचीनाः सिन्धुसौवीराः सौराष्ट्रा दक्षिणापथाः |
वङ्गाङ्गमगधा मत्स्याः समृद्धाः काशिकोसलाः || २-१०-३७
It’s true that Gita Press edition indeed captures Dravidah instead of Prachinaah, but the meaning of the 2 words and objectives thereof are entirely different. The author tries to impress that Dravidah is required to indicate southern territories, but Dakshinapatha is already present. Prachinaah indicates Eastern territories as captured by the website widely referenced by author too. The same is also cross-referenced with a popular Kannada version which also includes Prachinaah with the meaning of eastern territories. I couldn’t understand the rationale for the author’s affirmation that the correct shloka would read : dravidah Sindhu sauviirah Saurashtrah dakshinapathah. In page 53, the author again reiterates that prachinaah is not factually accurate. The argument is found further down where the author impresses upon the reader that since Videha (in-law kingdom of Sri Rama) was east of Kosala, Dasaratha couldn’t have any eastern frontiers. This could be considered different based on the point of reference. For example, if one considers Ayodhya, the capital as the reference, surely there would be regions (may not be named majorly) that could be bordering Videha. I am a little perplexed about the reasons for rejecting Prachinaah meaning eastern just because Videha is north-eastern to Kosala.
To the author’s credit, I did really appreciate the discussion on the Yojana calculation and reasons for the difference between the most commonly held calculation vs Prabhupada’s definition. This is one section which is fleshed out with good details. However, beyond a point, the author does diverge away from the main topic delving into the dietary habits of Dutch and reasons for their tall height. While trying to establish that the average height of the populace in Ramayana period was greater than 6 ft, the author equates the dietary choices of Dutch with those in Ramayana period. Quite frankly, I am puzzled at these equivalences between a modern data point and quite an ancient data point. As a contrarian point, if Bharatiyas are fed with the same diet today, will they grow to be 7 feet tall?
The section on the moats surrounding Ayodhya and the girdle of trees is quite interesting and informative. The author’s extensive research is well presented to reaffirm the idea. In Page 79, while elaborating on उद्यान-आम्रवण-उपेताम् महतीम् साल-मेखलाम्, the author has translated साल as Sal Tree. Monier-Williams dictionary does provide Sal as one of the translation options. However, in the context, if we refer to Gita Press or other translations, साल is employed to mean generic tree as outlined by Shabdakosha and not a specific variety of the same. The author doesn’t elaborate on the nuances and just presents the Sal tree version. The explanation on kardhani / kamarband is quite unnecessary in the context of the discussion.
There is a recurring pattern in each of the chapters. The author picks up a context (ex: buildings of Ayodhya), considers the verses from Valmiki Ramayana, getting into the specifics of the wordplay and summarising the meaning. However, the discussion diverges into other unrelated topics like gold platting to European invaders taking gold from Peru temples to Tutankhamen’s tomb. These additional details, though informative, derail the reading flow and spoils the overall experience. I wish the author had perhaps considered to keep the addendums to a bare minimum introducing only the relevant ones, which would augment the narrative than becoming a general knowledge exposition.
In the chapter on Shape and Structure of residences, the author comments that “The Matsya Purana, incidentally, contains the story of Manu and his descendants Dasharatha and Sri Rama.” To qualify as Purana, there are 5 lakshanas / requirements of sort, one of which is to encapsulate the vamshacharitha or historical account of both Suryavamsha (Solar Dynasty) and Chandravamsha (Lunar Dynasty). All Puranas need to satisfy these 5 lakshanas to qualify as Purana. Quoting from Matsya Purana,
सर्गश्च प्रतिसर्गश्च वंशो मन्वन्तराणि च । वंश्यानुचरितं चैव पुराणं पञ्चलक्षणम्
In the same chapter, the author describes the various vimanas, their architecture and inferences thereof in great detail. Though deviating from the original topic, this is a well written section which is very informative to the reader.
In Page 126, quoting the author, “The closest we can get to deciphering Vimaanas is to go by the descriptions in the Vimanika Shastra” and further summarises that Pushpaka Vimana was a Sakuma Vimana. Valmiki Ramayana has quite an interesting and detailed description of Pushpaka Vimana. In Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 121, verses 23 - 28 describe the splendour of Pushpaka Vimana in great detail. I am a little surprised that the author didn’t capture this detail in her description.
In page 143, the author mentions that Kaikeyi, while being the favourite queen of Dasharatha, wanted her son Bharatha to inherit the throne and asked for Prince Rama to be banished for 14 years. This is a very narrow view without considering the overall context and events leading to this situation. In Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 7, when Manthara tries to poison Kaikeyi’s mind, this is her first response:
रामे वा भरते वाहं विशेषं नोपलक्षये |
तस्मात्तुष्टास्मि यद्राजा रामं राज्येऽभिषेक्ष्यति || २-७-३५
"I do not see any difference between Rama and Bharata. That is why, I am happy that Rama is being anointed for crown by the king."
When Kaikeyi had a motherly love and affection for Sri Rama, I wonder why the author took a very narrow view on this topic. Coincidentally, the author has quoted the first verse from the same sarga, but didn’t consider the more important one for the context. While the quoted incident is factually correct over time, the author has the onus to set the context for those who are not familiar with the epic.
While describing the splendour of Kaikeyi’s palace, I am quite shocked to read the equivalence of Valmiki’s description to a modern day contraption, Bar. I mean a Bar in Treta Yuga. I am quite shocked !!! Ref: Page 154 of the book.
Throughout the book, the author keeps referring to her Sangam Talks multiple times. Beyond a limit, this becomes a point of irritation and sort of self aggrandisement, which certainly could have been avoided. The pictures on Page 166 are in monochrome, which defeats the purpose as the author is trying to explain the unique feature of each of the variants, with colour being a dominant feature to distinguish. The prices from the website is another detail that could have been avoided as it doesn’t serve any purpose in the book.
In page 172, the author comments that Lord Rama was specifically trained in the use of baaNa or bow. baaNa is the word for arrow. Dhanus or specifically Kodanda is the word for Bow. Hence, Sri Rama is also known as Kodanda Rama.
In page 194, the author tries to provide a description of Shatagnii from Brahmanda Purana. This is actually a reproduction of content from this page https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/... where Dṛṣadvara is replaced by Shataghnii. However, there is no reference that connects Dṛṣadvara and Shatagnii.
In page 233, while describing the horses brought into Ayodhya vide this verse
कांभोजविषये जातैर्बाह्लीकैश्च हयोत्तमैः |
वनायुजैर्नदीजैश्च पूर्णा हरिहयोत्तमैः || १-६-२२
The author makes a note that river bed horses are Hippopotamus. In both valmikiramayan.net which the author has frequently derived from or the Gita Press translation, it is clear that the above verse means horses born at the place where rivers flowed. I am not sure if naadijaaH would only mean Hippopotamus, but the author certainly considers this to be the case and writes a few more pages, getting into the discovery of an ancient fossil.
In the concluding part of the book, the author takes a verse from Sri Rama Pattabhisheka and uses the same as Phalasruthi. Personally, I am little flabbergasted and aghast about modern authors claiming Phalasruthi for their works, which at best are commentaries or observations. However, when I did discuss with my friend cum mentor, he did mention that owing to the book, we try to read Ramayana in original form and hence, the original phala would be accrued, albeit in a round about manner. Yet, I personally do wish that the author didn’t include this part in the book.
Some cosmetic issues:
- In page 14, the author quotes the name of the chapter 4 from Srimad Bhagwad Gita as Jyana Yoga instead of Jnana Yoga.
- The choice of font could have been better. 10 comes across as IO, which is awkward. (Ex: Page 172)
Ending note
As a reviewer, I would have certain expectations and the above is a honest opinion on what I found as compared to my expectations i.e. enthralling journey through the very divine Ayodhya. While reviewing and critiquing a book is easy as there is a material to analyse, creating the same requires a lot of effort and dedication. I fully respect the author for her extensive research, referencing various books on Vasatu Shasta, Arthasastra etc.
I do have my own differences on certain content and flow of the book. There is a lot of content from public websites which are quoted as views and observations here. I would recommend this book only to rank beginners. However, for real asaktas, I would highly recommending investing in the Gita Press edition and reading through the same.
Reviewer’s References:
1. Ramayan http://valmikiramayan.pcriot.com/
2. Skanda Purana extract: https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/bo...
3. Ramayan with word meanings : https://ambuda.org/texts/ramayanam/
4. Srimad Valmiki Ramayana (Kannada) - Gita Press
5. Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam (Kannada) - Vid. N. Ranganatha Sharma
Recommended Reading:
1. Krishna - Bhagwan Das
2. Srimad Valmiki Ramayana - Gita Press edition with shlokas and meaning
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May 21, 2024हाल ही में मैंने अयोध्या का दौरा किया और वहां की दिव्यता को महसूस किया। एक श्रद्धा के रूप में, मैंने 'अद्भुत अयोध्या' पुस्तक भी पढ़ने के लिए प्राप्त की। इस समीक्षा में, मैं अयोध्या और अयोध्या जन्मभूमि से जुड़े कुछ तथ्यों और जानकारियों को भी साझा करूंगी।
अयोध्या श्री राम की जन्मस्थली है, यह तो हर कोई जानता है। लेकिन लेखक इस महत्वपूर्ण विवरण से परे जाकर यह बताती हैं कि यह शहर कैसे अस्तित्व में आया।
पुस्तक छह भागों में विभाजित है:
1. पहला भाग अयोध्या और इसके स्थापना के बारे में है।
2. दूसरा और तीसरा भाग अयोध्या और कोसला के भौगोलिक विवरण के बारे में है।
3. चौथा और पाँचवा भाग शहर और इसके आस-पास के वास्तुशिल्प विवरणों के बारे में है।
4. पाँचवा भाग अयोध्या के शस्त्रास्त्र और रक्षा दृष्टिकोण के बारे में है, जो कौटिल्य के अर्थशास्त्र से प्रेरित है।
5. छठा भाग अयोध्या में जानवरों और सामान्य जीवन के बारे में है।
मुझे मानना पड़ेगा कि कुछ हिस्सों को पूरी तरह समझने के लिए दो या तीन बार पढ़ना पड़ सकता है, या शायद यह सिर्फ मेरी बात है। मैं सुझाव दूंगी कि पुस्तक को धीमी गति से पढ़ें ताकि आप इसके पढ़ने के अनुभव का पूरा आनंद ले सकें।
इसके अतिरिक्त, पुस्तक में फोटो और व्याख्याएँ भी शामिल हैं, जो इसे और भी रोचक बनाते हैं। यह सभी युगों—सत्य युग, त्रेता युग, द्वापर युग और कलि युग—का उल्लेख और विवरण भी देती है, जिससे पाठकों को भारतीय पौराणिक कथाओं और इतिहास की गहरी समझ मिलती है।
अयोध्या श्री राम की जन्मस्थली है, यह तो हर कोई जानता है। लेकिन लेखक इस महत्वपूर्ण विवरण से परे जाकर यह बताती हैं कि यह शहर कैसे अस्तित्व में आया।
पुस्तक छह भागों में विभाजित है:
1. पहला भाग अयोध्या और इसके स्थापना के बारे में है।
2. दूसरा और तीसरा भाग अयोध्या और कोसला के भौगोलिक विवरण के बारे में है।
3. चौथा और पाँचवा भाग शहर और इसके आस-पास के वास्तुशिल्प विवरणों के बारे में है।
4. पाँचवा भाग अयोध्या के शस्त्रास्त्र और रक्षा दृष्टिकोण के बारे में है, जो कौटिल्य के अर्थशास्त्र से प्रेरित है।
5. छठा भाग अयोध्या में जानवरों और सामान्य जीवन के बारे में है।
मुझे मानना पड़ेगा कि कुछ हिस्सों को पूरी तरह समझने के लिए दो या तीन बार पढ़ना पड़ सकता है, या शायद यह सिर्फ मेरी बात है। मैं सुझाव दूंगी कि पुस्तक को धीमी गति से पढ़ें ताकि आप इसके पढ़ने के अनुभव का पूरा आनंद ले सकें।
इसके अतिरिक्त, पुस्तक में फोटो और व्याख्याएँ भी शामिल हैं, जो इसे और भी रोचक बनाते हैं। यह सभी युगों—सत्य युग, त्रेता युग, द्वापर युग और कलि युग—का उल्लेख और विवरण भी देती है, जिससे पाठकों को भारतीय पौराणिक कथाओं और इतिहास की गहरी समझ मिलती है।
September 5, 2024
wonderfully well writen in an easy to understand language. The author's dedication and hardwork reflects in the information given in the book.
However I noticed two faults- on page 31, the author mentions 'On 6th Nov 2018 the Uttar Pradesh cabinet approved renaming of Faizabad district as Ayodhya and shifting the administrative headquarters of the district to Ayodhya city.'
The administrative headquarters of the district and the division are still at Faizabad city and the city of Faizabad itself and has been renamed Ayodhya. For those who don't know, Faizabad and Ayodhya are two separate settlements. While Faizabad is a city with administrative headquarters, Ayodhya is small pilgrimage town located at some distance.
Secondly, on page 143 the author writes about Queen Kaikeyi 'She wanted her son Bharata to inherit the throne so she asked for Prince Rama to be banished for 14 years in lieu of two wishes owed to her by Dashratha'
Queen Kaikeyi to begin with never wanted prince Bharat to become the King. She was mislead and beguiled by her maid Manthara to blackmail Emperor Dashratha. The author has written this in such a way that Queen Kaikeyi actively intended to make her son Bharat the King.
However I noticed two faults- on page 31, the author mentions 'On 6th Nov 2018 the Uttar Pradesh cabinet approved renaming of Faizabad district as Ayodhya and shifting the administrative headquarters of the district to Ayodhya city.'
The administrative headquarters of the district and the division are still at Faizabad city and the city of Faizabad itself and has been renamed Ayodhya. For those who don't know, Faizabad and Ayodhya are two separate settlements. While Faizabad is a city with administrative headquarters, Ayodhya is small pilgrimage town located at some distance.
Secondly, on page 143 the author writes about Queen Kaikeyi 'She wanted her son Bharata to inherit the throne so she asked for Prince Rama to be banished for 14 years in lieu of two wishes owed to her by Dashratha'
Queen Kaikeyi to begin with never wanted prince Bharat to become the King. She was mislead and beguiled by her maid Manthara to blackmail Emperor Dashratha. The author has written this in such a way that Queen Kaikeyi actively intended to make her son Bharat the King.
August 25, 2021
A brilliant book. One of it's kind.
Even if one has read valmiki Ramayana, this book gradually constructs the then Ayodhya in imagination.
Very well researched by author.
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED!
Even if one has read valmiki Ramayana, this book gradually constructs the then Ayodhya in imagination.
Very well researched by author.
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED!
February 14, 2022
Amazing book. The prose and content is more like a school textbook rather than a novel which I liked a lot. This could actually be in our curriculum
July 23, 2022
A completely new way to look at Ayodhya. Never had come across such a vivid insight into Ayodhya and it's inhabitants. Great effort indeed.
January 15, 2024
Meticulously researched and artistically presented. However, typos and spelling errors in both Sanskrit shlokas and English text are jarring.
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