Majestic Temple in Ayodhya: The Gift of a Palace from Kaikeyi to Janaknandini

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Narendra Jijhontiya

Majestic Temple in Ayodhya: The Gift of a Palace from Kaikeyi to Janaknandini

Ayodhya, April 25: The sacred land of Ayodhya is home to numerous temples, each telling its own tale of devotion. Among them is Kanak Bhawan, a symbol of love, affection, and family values. This temple features an extraordinary Ram Panchayat, where the idols of Lord Shri Ram, Mata Sita, and other family members are arranged as if engaged in a genuine council.

According to ancient legends, when Mata Sita arrived in Ayodhya, Mata Kaikeyi gifted her this magnificent palace as a ‘muh-dikhai’ (a customary gift). It is said that during the wedding night of Lord Shri Ram and Mata Janaki, Shri Ram envisioned a beautiful residence for Sita in Ayodhya. At that moment, Queen Kaikeyi dreamt of a divine palace and shared this vision with King Dasharath, urging him to replicate it in Ayodhya. Responding to the queen’s request, the divine architect Vishwakarma constructed this splendid and beautiful building.

This palace was lovingly presented to Mata Sita as her personal abode for rest and relaxation. The grand walls, serene courtyards, and ethereal atmosphere of Kanak Bhawan still narrate the beauty, familial love, and respect of that era. The current structure of Kanak Bhawan was renovated in the 19th century by Maharani Vrishabhanu Kunwari, the wife of King Sawai Mahendra Pratap Singh of Orchha. In 1891, two new idols of Ram and Sita were also installed alongside ancient sculptures.

In the main sanctum of the temple, beautiful idols of Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita are enshrined. The temple’s stunning architecture and artistry captivate all who visit. Located to the northeast of Ram Janmabhoomi, this temple is renowned worldwide for its grandeur and sanctity. It is believed that Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita still visit this sacred place.

Kanak Bhawan holds not only religious significance but also keeps alive the traditions of the Raghu dynasty, mutual love, and familial bonds. Devotees visiting Ayodhya make it a point to visit Kanak Bhawan, where the tranquil environment provides peace to the soul. The idols of the Ram family appear as if they are alive, engaged in a council.

The nearest airport to experience the glimpse of the Treta Yuga at Kanak Bhawan is Lucknow International Airport, located 152 kilometers away from Ayodhya. Other airports include Faizabad-Gorakhpur (158 km), Prayagraj (172 km), and Varanasi (224 km).

Faizabad and Ayodhya railway stations are well-connected to major cities. Faizabad is 128 km and Ayodhya is 135 km from Lucknow. Uttar Pradesh State Transport buses are available 24 hours. The distance from Lucknow to Ayodhya by road is 172 kilometers.

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