cheduled for inauguration on December 30 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ayodhya Airport has been meticulously designed in resonance with the revered Hindu epic, Ramayana.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the ‘Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham’ in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on Saturday, December 30. This airport, named with cultural reverence, not only serves the needs of pilgrims and tourists but also holds symbolic importance as it intricately reflects themes from the Hindu epic Ramayana.
The airport, constructed in the Nagara architectural style typical to Indian temples in the northern and western regions, boasts a distinctive design featuring seven mounted peaks known as shikharas. These peaks, symbolizing the seven books (Kandas) of the revered Hindu epic Ramayana, are adorned with sculptures and decorations echoing the narrative. The strategic design of the airport ensures visibility of Lord Ram from every vantage point.
A prominent mural depicting a bow and arrow outside the airport signifies the triumph over deceit, as explained by architect Vipul Varshney in an interview with India Today. Additionally, the airport’s landscaping incorporates colors representative of the five elements of nature—earth, water, fire, air, and space.
Inside the airport, two types of plaques—divine plaques and khandikas—have been installed, meticulously crafted after extensive research involving meetings with Ayodhya’s saints, acharyas, and a deep study of the Skanda Purana, an ancient Hindu text.
Among the notable artworks is a grand mural dedicated to Mahabali Hanuman, depicting his life journey from birth to his revered position in Ayodhya, following the instructions of Lord Ram, as per folklore.
Further cultural features include a sprawling Madhubani painting portraying the court of Lord Ram (Ram Darbar) and the depiction of his marriage to Sita.
Architect Vipul Varshney highlighted the airport’s environmentally friendly construction using GRC technology, ensuring zero pollution from stones.
The initial phase of the airport’s construction amounted to Rs 1,450 crore. The new terminal, covering 6,500 square meters, is designed to accommodate 600 peak-hour passengers and can handle up to 10 lakh passengers annually.