Amaravati of Devas and Lanka of Ravana are two prominent cities mentioned in ancient Indian texts, each representing a pinnacle of architectural and cultural achievement within their respective realms.
Amaravati of Devas
Location and Significance:
- Location: Amaravati is described as being situated in the celestial region of Svarga, one of the realms in Hindu cosmology.
- Ruler: It is ruled by Indra, the king of the Devas (gods).
- Significance: Amaravati serves as the capital of the gods and is a place of divine beauty and eternal happiness.
Architecture and Description:
- Design: The city is renowned for its exquisite palaces made of gold, silver, and precious gems.
- Nandana Gardens: Amaravati is home to the Nandana Gardens, an otherworldly paradise with trees that bear all kinds of fruits and flowers, regardless of season.
- River Mandakini: The celestial river Mandakini flows through the city, adding to its allure.
Inhabitants:
- Devas: The primary inhabitants are the Devas, who are semi-divine beings associated with natural forces and moral order.
- Apsaras and Gandharvas: Celestial dancers (Apsaras) and musicians (Gandharvas) entertain the inhabitants, contributing to the city's lively and joyful atmosphere.
Cultural and Religious Significance:
- Festivals: Amaravati is a hub for various divine festivals and rituals, often in honor of Indra and other deities.
- Mythological Events: Many significant events in Hindu mythology, such as the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), are associated with Amaravati.
Defense and Protection:
- Fortifications: The city is protected by powerful fortifications and divine weapons, ensuring its safety from Asuras (demons) and other adversaries.
- Indra's Vajra: Indra wields the Vajra (thunderbolt), a formidable weapon that is a symbol of his power and the city’s security.
Lanka of Ravana
Location and Significance:
- Location: Lanka is located on an island, often identified with present-day Sri Lanka.
- Ruler: The city is ruled by Ravana, a powerful Rakshasa (demon) king.
- Significance: Lanka is portrayed as a city of immense wealth and technological advancement, reflecting Ravana’s grandeur and might.
Architecture and Description:
- Design: Lanka is described as having towering palaces and fortifications made of gold and other precious materials.
- Pushpaka Vimana: Ravana’s flying chariot, the Pushpaka Vimana, is a symbol of his technological prowess and luxurious lifestyle.
- Asoka Vatika: The Asoka Vatika is a beautiful garden within Lanka where Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was held captive.
Inhabitants:
- Rakshasas: The primary inhabitants are Rakshasas, known for their strength, magical abilities, and often malevolent nature.
- Ravana’s Court: Ravana’s court consists of various powerful beings, including his brothers Kumbhakarna and Vibhishana, and his loyal ministers.
Cultural and Religious Significance:
- Temples: Despite being a demon king, Ravana is a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva, and Lanka hosts several temples dedicated to Shiva.
- Epic Role: Lanka is central to the events of the Ramayana, particularly the abduction of Sita and the subsequent battle between Rama and Ravana.
Defense and Protection:
- Fortifications: The city is heavily fortified with walls and guarded by fearsome Rakshasas, making it nearly impregnable.
- Ravana’s Might: Ravana himself is a formidable warrior with ten heads and twenty arms, skilled in various weapons and magical arts.
Lesser-Known Facts and Additional Details
Amaravati:
- Sudharma Assembly Hall: This divine hall is where the Devas gather for important discussions and decisions, symbolizing divine governance.
- Kamadhenu: The wish-fulfilling cow Kamadhenu resides in Amaravati, providing endless prosperity and abundance to the inhabitants.
- Varuna’s Connection: Varuna, the god of water, is said to have a significant influence in Amaravati, with various water bodies and features enhancing the city's beauty.
Lanka:
- Mayan’s Role: The city of Lanka is said to have been designed by the architect Mayan, who is renowned for his architectural genius.
- Ravana’s Devotion: Despite his fearsome reputation, Ravana is depicted as a scholar and a devotee of Shiva, often performing intense penances.
- Vibhishana’s Virtue: Ravana’s brother Vibhishana, who eventually sides with Rama, is a symbol of righteousness and moral integrity amidst a demonic kingdom.
Comparative Analysis
- Architectural Grandeur: Both cities exemplify architectural brilliance, with Amaravati being a divine abode and Lanka being a symbol of opulence and power.
- Cultural Essence: Amaravati represents eternal happiness and divine order, while Lanka showcases the peak of material wealth and technological advancement.
- Moral Contrast: Amaravati is associated with dharma (righteousness) and divine virtues, whereas Lanka, under Ravana, often represents adharma (unrighteousness) despite its cultural and intellectual achievements.
In essence, Amaravati and Lanka, while both epitomes of grandeur and power, serve as contrasting symbols within Hindu mythology—one of divine harmony and the other of formidable but often morally complex might.