Temples
of the Gangetic Plains
Description Ayodhya is considered to be
one of the 7 Muktistalams of India. Ayodhya is believed to be a component of Vaikuntham,
given to Manu by Vishnu, and installed on the banks of the Sarayu. Ayodhya is very closely
associated with the story of Rama (as told in the timeless Indian epic Ramayana). Ayodhya
is located in Uttar Pradesh and is visited by thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.
The Tamil Alwars have mentioned Ayodhya in their works ; Nammalwar,
Tirumangaialwar and Tondaradippodialwar in one poem each; while Periyalwar and
Kulasekharalwar have six and four poems each, mentioning Ayodhya. The Ramayana dates way
back in time. The Alwars lived in the latter half of the first millenium CE.
The Ammaji Temple is a temple built embracing South Indian architecture, at a much
later date, at Ayodhya, on the banks of the Sarayu river. Ranganathar and Rama are
enshrined here. Rama is enshrined in a seated posture facing North. Worship services are
conducted here by South Indian Sree Vaishnava priests.
There are several temples and shrines related to Rama Sita Lakshmana and Hanuman in the
ancient town of Ayodhya. |
