Ayodhya, October 20 : Ramnagari Ayodhya, historically known by illustrious titles such as Saket Dham on earth, the capital of the Suryavansh dynasty, the foremost city among the Sapt Puris, and the seat of Vaivasvat Manu's empire, had experienced a significant decline before 2017.

Despite its spiritual significance, with Ram residing in every particle of the city, the past 500 years left Ayodhya in a state of neglect, humiliation, and decay. The once-pristine waters of the Saryu River, which had witnessed Ayodhya's Treta Yuga splendor, had fallen into disrepair.

Landmarks like Ram Ki Paidi, Surya Kund, and Dashrath Mahal, central to Lord Shri Ram's legacy, had also deteriorated.

However, the situation began to change in 2017 when CM Yogi Adityanath took charge, marking a new dawn of development in Ayodhya. The Yogi government initiated a massive transformation, with various beautification and development projects rapidly progressing across Ramnagari.

Today, Ayodhya is setting new benchmarks in modern urban development while preserving its ancient heritage, thanks to the strong resolve of the 'double engine' government, driven by the guidance of PM Modi and the efficient execution by CM Yogi.

The Yogi government prioritized the restoration and beautification of Ayodhya's monastery temples, dedicating ₹68 crores to this initiative. The project encompasses several prominent sites, including Janaki Ghat, Bada Sthan, Dashrath Bhawan Temple, Mangal Bhawan, Akshari Temple, Ram Kachheri Temple, Siyaram Fort, Digambar Akhara, Tulsi Chauraha Temple, Bharat Fort Temple, Hanuman Temple, Kaleram Temple, Nepali Temple, Chitragupt Temple, Vishwakarma Temple, Chhoti Devkali Temple, Maurya Temple, Ram Gulela Temple, Kartaliya Baba Temple, Tiwari Temple, Ved Temple, Mani Ram Das Cantonment Temple, Bareilly Temple, Rang Mahal Temple, Tedhiyati Mahadev Temple, Ram Pustakalaya Temple, Vidya Devi Temple, Devi Kali Kund Temple, Ratna Singhasan Temple, and other ancient temples, ashrams, and ponds.

Saket Sadan is also undergoing restoration, using traditional materials like lime and dry clay to bring the building back to its original form, alongside park rejuvenation. The total cost for these efforts amounts to ₹1,682.87 lakhs.

Before 2017: Previous governments had neglected Ayodhya's monastery temples, leading to a state of disrepair with garbage accumulation and cracks appearing in the walls of these ancient structures.

After 2017: Under the Yogi government's leadership, Ayodhya's ancient splendor is being revived. The renovation, carried out by the UP State Tourism Development Corporation, began even before the decision to construct the grand Ram temple.

The rejuvenation of Ayodhya's cultural heritage was prioritized, with the construction of pucca ghats along ancient lakes and rivers. It is believed that Ayodhya is home to around 8,000 temples, with many undergoing beautification. The pace of work has accelerated following the consecration of Lord Ramlala in the grand temple.

The Yogi government has facilitated Ayodhya's transformation through the construction of four major paths—Bhakti Path, Janmabhoomi Path, Ram Path, and Dharma Path—each inspired by the four Vedas and four eras. These paths integrate the city's ancient heritage with modern amenities, featuring mural and wall paintings, pebble stone sculptures, modern lighting, Wi-Fi connectivity, and solar energy utilization, creating a global model for urban development.

Before 2017: The roads in Ayodhya were in a deplorable state. Many had become so deteriorated that not only was driving difficult, but even walking was a challenge. Widespread illegal encroachment had turned many roads into narrow lanes, causing significant inconvenience to both devotees and local residents.

After 2017: The situation has transformed, with the construction of four major routes costing crores. Laxman Path, Sugreev Tila, Aagaman Path, and Kshirsagar Path are being developed, now serving not just as thoroughfares for civil transport but also as symbols of Ayodhya's glorious past and rich heritage.

The ponds from Lord Rama's time hold deep mythological significance, with many believed to be sites where he and his brothers engaged in daily activities like bathing. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath initiated a major beautification project to restore these ponds, aiming to boost Ayodhya's appeal as a tourism and religious destination. There are 108 Kunds associated with Lord Ram in the city and over 10 of these have already been renovated, emerging as new tourist attractions.

Before 2017: The ancient ponds of Ayodhya were in a state of neglect. Many had dried up, and the stairs of the Kunds were covered in thick layers of moss. The water was polluted with garbage and moss, making it unsuitable for bathing or drinking.

After 2017: Ayodhya's blend of Treta Yuga glory and modern development is evident in the restoration of various ponds, including the historically significant Surya Kund. According to mythology, even the Sun stayed here, and it is said that there was no night in Ayodhya for a month. Despite its spiritual and historical importance, Surya Kund had suffered years of neglect.

With the Yogi government's initiatives, the condition of this renowned pond has dramatically improved. It is now a major attraction, offering entertainment like laser shows in the surrounding park and serving as a source of health and spiritual enrichment. The restoration efforts extend to other ponds in Ayodhya, revitalizing the city's heritage.

Efforts are underway to give Ayodhya's entry routes a Treta Yuga-inspired appearance, with grand entry gates built on all main roads leading into the city, reminiscent of those in ancient capitals.

A budget of ₹140 crore has been allocated for these gates, some of which are still under construction. Key entry points include Shri Ram Dwar on the Lucknow-Ayodhya road, Hanuman Dwar on the Gorakhpur-Ayodhya road, Laxman Dwar on the Gonda-Ayodhya road, Bharat Dwar on the Prayagraj-Ayodhya road, Jatayu Dwar on the Ambedkar Nagar-Ayodhya road, and Garun Dwar on the Raebareli-Ayodhya road.

Before 2017: Ayodhya lacked even basic infrastructure, with no entry gates or proper roads. Heavy encroachment had reduced the road from Nayaghat to Faizabad to a narrow single lane, and the grand entry gates seen today were unimaginable for residents.

After 2017: The construction of these grand entry gates has become a reality, instantly conveying the magnificence and sanctity of Ramnagari to visitors. These gates have become popular selfie spots, especially during special events like Deepotsav, where devotees from around the world feel blessed to capture photos, reels, and videos at the entrances.

The Bhajan Sandhya site has been upgraded with modern amenities to host cultural programs, featuring an open hall, additional rooms for decorations, and seating for at least 5,000 spectators. State-of-the-art facilities include soundproofing, recording and photo shoot areas, and panoramic views of the Saryu River. The venue now provides a captivating setting for audiences to enjoy cultural and spiritual events.

Before 2017: Ayodhya lacked adequate facilities for hosting spiritual and cultural programs, often holding events on the banks of the Saryu or traveling to Faizabad for indoor gatherings.

*After 2017:* Ayodhya has seen a cultural renaissance, with extensive beautification of cultural sites. The city is steadily expanding its cultural landscape, making it a prominent center for spiritual and cultural experiences.

Ayodhya's historical connection with Korea, through the Princess of Ayodhya, has been honored with the preservation of the Queen Ho Memorial, modernized at a cost of ₹22 crores. The memorial now stands as a reflection of Ayodhya's rich heritage.

The Atal Residential School, constructed with an investment of around ₹12.5 crore, embodies the Yogi government's commitment to providing quality education to underprivileged children, integrating the ideals of 'Ram Rajya' with modern learning. The school is part of Atal Awas Vishwavidyalaya, where research on the Vedas and Vedangas will be conducted.

Additionally, the Ramayana University is being established on a 21-acre campus. The buildings at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ramayana Vidyapeeth University will be named after Ram, Laxman, Bharat, and Shatrughan, with the main building designated as Raghukul Bhawan, paying tribute to the legacy of the Ramayana.