Chapter 15: Harnessing Digital Technologies for Cultural Heritage Revival: Analysing Ayodhya's Cultural and Religious Landscape in the Post-Temple Construction Era

This research aims to discover the impact of digital technologies on the revival of cultural heritage in Ayodhya, particularly in the context of post-temple construction. The primary objective of this study is to observe how digital technologies facilitate the interpretation and understanding of Ayodhya’s cultural and religious significance after the temple’s completion and also to examine the implication of digital technologies in Virtual Repatriation and Digital Restitution of the city’s religious landscapes. The study adopts a qualitative analysis, relying on secondary data sources and literature analysis. By analysing existing literature, scholarly articles, and reports related to Ayodhya’s cultural heritage and the integration of digital technologies, this research aims to discern insights into the role of digital innovations in revitalising and interpreting Ayodhya’s cultural and religious landscape. This study focuses on secondary data sources to identify the changing tourist trends and examine digital technology’s role in better destination management alongside religious revival. The outcomes of this study will shed light on the effectiveness of virtual tools, digital repatriation methods, and other innovative approaches in enhancing public access, engagement, and understanding of Ayodhya’s rich religious and cultural heritage following significant architectural developments. This research contributes to the broader discourse on the intersection of digital technologies and cultural heritage preservation, with Ayodhya serving as a compelling case study for understanding the contemporary challenges and opportunities in cultural revival post major infrastructural changes in the city.