The
ancient city of Ayodhya, according to the Ramayana, was founded by Manu,
the law-giver of the Hindus. For centuries it was the capital of the decendants
of the Surya Vansh of which Lord Rama was the most celebrated king. Ayodhya
during ancient times was known as Kosaldesha. The Atharvaveda describes
it as "a city built by gods and being as prosperous as paradise itself".
The illustrious ruling dynasty of this region were the lkshvakus of the
Surya Vash. Accoridng to tradition lkshvaku was the eldest son of Vaivasvata
Manu, who established himself at Ayodhya. The earth is said to have derived its name 'Prithvi' from Prithu, the 6th king of the line. A few generations later came Masndhatri, in whose line the 31st king was Harishchandra, known idely for him live for truith. Raja Sagar of the same clan performed the ashvamedha yajna and his great grandson bhagirath is reputed to have brought ganga on earth by virtue of his penances. later in the time came the great raghu after whome the family came to be called as raghu vansh . His grandson was Raja Dasharatha the illustrious father of lord rama with whome the glory of the dynasty reached its zenith.
