As Ayodhya basks in the glory of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, let’s delve into the historical accounts of European travelers that shed light on the town’s rich cultural tapestry and its connection to the revered deity Ram.
- William Finch (1608-1611):
- Account from the early 17th century during Jahangir’s rule.
- Mentions “ruins of Ranichand’s castle and houses,” believed to be associated with Ramachandra, the hero of the Ramayana.
- Joannes de Laet (1631):
- Records popular beliefs holding Aurangzeb responsible for the demolition, rather than Babur.
- Describes Ayodhya as the place where “Indians regard Ramachand as God most high.”
- Joseph Tieffenthaler (1740):
- Jesuit missionary’s account during the later Mughal era.
- Describes Aurangzeb’s role in the demolition of Ram’s fortress and the construction of a mosque in its place.
- Robert Montgomery Martin (19th Century):
- 19th-century civil servant’s perspective.
- Highlights the belief in Ayodhya’s repopulation by Vikramaditya and attributes the temple destruction to Aurangzeb.
These accounts, often citing Aurangzeb as the antagonist, challenge the widely held belief of Babur’s role in the temple’s demolition. Kishore Kunal, in line with these narratives, suggests that Aurangzeb’s foster brother Fedai Khan may have orchestrated the demolition in 1660. This historical exploration adds layers to Ayodhya’s narrative, emphasizing the complex interplay of cultural, religious, and political forces over the centuries.
