Originally Posted by
pavananand
Janani janma bhoomischa swargadapi gareeyasi.
Some historical background:
When Lord Rama defeated Ravana in historical battle of Lanka, Lakshman, Lord Rama's brother asked him to settle in that beautiful city of Lanka which was supposedly made of bricks of Gold. This is the actual quote from Valmeeki Ramayan of Lord Rama's answer to Lakshmana's request.
अपि स्वर्णमयी लंका न मे लक्ष्मण रोचते ।
जननी जन्मभूमिश्च स्वर्गादपि गरीयसी ॥
Api swarnamayee lankaa na me Lakshmana rochate
Janaanee janmabhoomishcha swargaadapi gareeyasee
O Lakshmana, I don't like Lanka though made up of gold
(because) mother & motherland are greater than heaven.
I hope this helps.
Ask me if there are any doubts.
I will be more than glad to help.