Ayodhya and God Rama

Abstract

This paper explores Rama's historical and religious significance within Indian tradition, emphasizing his divinity and his association with Ayodhya as his birthplace. It discusses the transformation of Rama from a legendary figure to a divine deity, highlighting scriptural, epigraphic, and numismatic evidence that substantiates his worship as an incarnation of Vishnu by the second century A.D. Additionally, it delves into the archaeological evidence from Ayodhya that supports the continuous recognition of the site as a sacred locale in Hinduism. It highlights its importance through various periods, particularly noting significant findings from the Gupta period and later inscriptions.