Ayutthaya is a heritage city near Bangkok on the banks of three rivers, the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Lopburi, Thailand. Thailand (Siam) was established in the 13th century. The historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (official name), was the second capital of the Siamese kingdom. The historic city of Ayutthaya flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries. The city is famous for its beautiful temples, ruins and the architecture having a blend of Thai, Khmer and Burmese features. The city is now recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
Though it is said that Ayutthaya was founded by King Uthong in 1351, archaeological findings have evidence of buildings on the island, prior to the 12th century. There has been a scholarly debate about the origin of King Uthong. One of the theories claims him to be the Chola king, the theory is supported by many findings. Ayutthaya politically followed the Mandala system, commonly used throughout South East Asia kingdoms before the 19th century. Ayutthaya’s main religion was Buddhism. However, many of the elements of the political and social systems were incorporated from Hindu scriptures. Ramakien – Thai Ramayan provide Siamese with a rich source of cultural milieu. Sanskrit influence on Siamese language is evident. Huge number of loan words from Sanskrit and Pali are used in Siamese traditional songs.
Temples in Ayutthaya are mainly of two types, Stupa style solid temples or Prang style. Prang essentially represents Mount Meru. Wat Na Phra Men, Wat Phanan Choeng and many others can be mentioned here.
Ayodhya in Bharat and Ayutthaya in Thailand are separated by about 3,500 kilometres in two different countries but it is Bhagwan Ram who binds these two nations and its people together. Bhagwan Ram is central to the people of both the countries. When King Rama I, founder of the reigning Chakri dynasty of Siam, ascended to the throne in 1782, he took the name of Ramathibodi just like the founder of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Since then, all the kings of Thailand carry the name Rama. There is an incredible and deep connection between Ayutthaya and Ayodhya. This can be explored in many ways. One of the ways is to study the architectural style of these temples of Ayutthaya.
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