Introduction
Ravana’s Lanka is the most interesting and mysterious area in the Indian ancient epic The Ramayana and that Lanka belongs to Ravana. This was a rich city of fine architecture and skilled crafts in which lived the demon king Ravana. 11 fascinating things you may not already know about the great city of Lanka
1. A City of Gold
Ravana’s Lanka was most famous for it being made of gold. In the Ramayana, it was referred to as “Swarnalanka,” which means the city with golden palaces, domes and walls. As the fable goes, the city was so brilliant it shined like the sun. The golden architecture signified wealth and prosperity, highlighting the authority and glory of Ravana.
2. Designed by Vishwakarma
This was no random building in Lanka, this was the work of Vishwakarma, the master architect. It was constructed by Vishwakarma for Lord Shiva, but it was ruled by Ravana. The city was the zenith of ancient architectural and engineering, with complex palaces, high houses, and protecting partitions all subtly set together.
3. Strategic Location
The island of Lanka was situated on the Indian Ocean, even nearer to what is Sri-Lanka today. Being strategically located as a natural fortress, it was almost impossible to attack the rulers. Being an island city, three sides of which are surrounded by water and the other side has easy access, Ravana fortified it more.
4. A Hub of Trade and Commerce
Lanka was not only a city of gold, but also the most important trading and commerce hub in ancient times. Its strategic location enabled maritime trade and it drew traders from various parts of the world. The city became a wealthy because of this rich trade involving exotic commodities, spices and precious metals.
5. Flying Chariots
Lanka of Ravana was known for its technical advancements, the most celebrated one being the Pushpaka Vimana or Flying Chariot. This Vimana was mentioned in the Ramayana – It was a flying vehicle and Ravan used this to travel towards other worlds. These descriptions lend credence to the mythical idea that Lanka was capable of complex technologies, even by interpretations of ancient Sanskrit texts.
6. The Magnificent Ashok Vatika
Ashok Vatika, a lush garden within Lanka, is another important aspect of the city. It was here that Sita, wife of Lord Rama, was held captive by Ravan. The garden is depicted as a serene and beautiful place filled with flowering trees, fragrant blossoms, and vibrant vegetation. It was a symbol of both the city’s natural beauty and Ravan’s power.
7. Cultural And Academic Importance
Lanka was not only a rich country, but it was also a centre for knowledge and civilisation. Even Ravana was a learned and astute follower of Lord Shiva. He earned proficiency in different subjects- astrology, music and the Vedas. In earlier days, even when Ujjain was a city boasting of many learned men and famously known for its universities, it had this aspect of mixing affluence with prosperity be would mean culture.
8. Multi-Tiered Defense System
Ravana’s Lanka had ensured the security by also guarding it well. It boasted a multiple-layered defense — comprised of high walls, moats, and armed guards. To add to this, the city was also shielded by great sorcery which warded off anyone who tried to come in and thus was virtually formidable.
9. The grand palace of Ravana’s Lanka was the centrepiece of Lanka.
Described as being as tall as the sky, it was a symbol of his immense power and authority. The palace was filled with treasures, rare gemstones, and intricate carvings, reflecting the demon king’s wealth and love for opulence. It also contained chambers for meditation and worship, showcasing Ravana’s spiritual side.
10. The Fall of Ravana’s Lanka
Lanka lost all its grandeur when Lord Rama dealt a crushing blow over it with the help of hanuman and Vanara army to rescue Sita. This battle was won by the victor, and its erstwhile glorious city was engulfed in flames. This proved as an end to the era of Ravana, as he went from creating Lanka in the seas to destroying it.
11. Legacy and Symbolism
Even now, Ravana’s Lanka remains one of the most significant parts of Indian culture and mythological beliefs. A sign against which fact only the strongest of predilection and rankest wilful blindness can stubbornly inspire ideas symbolises both great strength, and might as well as uninhabited craving. In later times, the depiction of Lanka is more nuanced to add complexity to Ravana as not simply an evil villain but a learned ruler with many qualities worth admiration.
Lanka is not merely a place in the epic saga of Ramayana but an epitome of a glorious past, scientific talent and an enduring fight between dharma and Adharma. Here, 11 insights offer a peek inside the mythical city that has entranced minds for centuries.
