The Indian government recently decided to rename Ayodhya airport to ‘Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham.’ This change pays tribute to Maharishi Valmiki, a revered sage known for composing the epic Ramayana, adding a cultural touch to the airport’s identity.
During a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it was not only the name change that took place but also the declaration of Ayodhya airport as an international airport. This move aims to unlock Ayodhya’s economic potential and enhance its significance as a global pilgrimage site, attracting foreign pilgrims and tourists.
5 facts about Valmiki
- Valmiki – The Adi Kavi
Valmiki, often referred to as Adi Kavi or the “first/original poet” in Sanskrit, holds credit for composing the Ramayana, considered the first epic poem in the Sanskrit literary tradition. Though there are debates about the dating of the text, Valmiki’s contribution as a poet is widely recognized.
- Valmiki’s Presence in Ramayana
Valmiki himself appears in the Ramayana in the Bala and Uttara Kandas. These chapters, likely later additions to the epic, highlight Valmiki’s role in framing the narrative. The story begins with Valmiki asking sage Narada about a righteous man, leading to the narration of Lord Ram’s tale.
- Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas
While Valmiki is credited as the original author of the Ramayana, Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas, composed in the vernacular Awadhi, is more popular today. This 16th-century work made the story of Ram accessible to the common man, especially through the tradition of Ramlila, a dramatic enactment of the text.
- Debate Surrounding Valmiki’s Caste
The caste of Sage Valmiki remains a subject of debate and controversy. Various communities across India claim lineage to Valmiki, while some scriptural sources identify him as a Brahmin. The Karnataka government even formed a committee in 2016 to determine Valmiki’s caste, reflecting the ongoing disagreement.
- From Robber to Saint
Valmiki’s origin story adds to the debate, as he was once known as Ratnakar, a feared dacoit and hunter. His encounter with Sage Narada transformed him into a saint. The sage provided Ratnakar with a mantra – the name of Lord Ram – leading to his profound transformation. He became Valmiki, named after the anthill that grew around him during his penance.
Positive Takeaway
The decision to name Ayodhya airport after Maharishi Valmiki truly commendable. Overall, the decision aligns with the city’s historical prominence, opening up opportunities for economic development and positioning it as a global pilgrimage site. It’s a positive step that not only recognizes Valmiki’s contributions but also enhances Ayodhya’s cultural and economic significance.
