Kanak Bhawan Introduction
Kanak Bhawan, literally meaning “Golden Palace”, stands as a revered temple in the sacred city of Ayodhya, situated to the northeast of Ram Janmabhoomi, in the Ramkot area. This temple holds immense significance for devotees and is considered a ‘must-visit’ destination in Ayodhya.
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Kanak Bhawan: A Must-Visit in Ayodhya
The temple’s popularity stems from its association with Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, making it a prominent pilgrimage site. The captivating beauty of the temple, adorned with gold-crowned idols of the divine couple, adds to its allure.
History and Origin of Kanak Bhawan Ayodhya
The history of Kanak Bhawan traces back to the Treta Yuga, as per Hindu mythology. It is believed to have been gifted to Goddess Sita by Queen Kaikeyi, Lord Rama’s stepmother, upon Sita’s arrival in Ayodhya after her marriage to Lord Rama.
- The temple witnessed several reconstructions and renovations throughout its existence.
- The first reconstruction is believed to have been carried out by Rama’s son, Kush, in the Dvapara Yuga.
- Further reconstructions are attributed to King Rishabh Dev and Lord Krishna.
- In the present era, reconstructions are linked to rulers like Chandragupta II and Samudragupta.
- The temple faced destruction in 1027 AD by Nawab Salarjung-II Ghazi.
- The present structure we see today was built in 1891 by Maharani Vrishabhanu Kunwari, the queen of Orchha and Tikamgarh, along with her husband, Maharaj Mahendra Pratap Singh.
Structure of the Kanak Bhawan Temple
The architectural design of Kanak Bhawan draws inspiration from the palaces of Rajasthan and Bundelkhand. The temple is characterized by:
- A central hall with arched doorways on three sides.
- The sanctum sanctorum houses the magnificent gold-crowned idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
- The idols are adorned with elaborate gold ornaments, justifying the temple’s name, “Kanak Bhawan,” with “Kanak” signifying gold
Spiritual Experience at Kanak Bhawan
Kanak Bhawan provides a spiritually enriching experience.
- The divine aura of the temple, coupled with the magnificent idols, evokes a sense of tranquility and devotion.
- The temple serves as a testament to the eternal love and devotion of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
Beliefs and Customs at Kanak Bhawan
- Gift from Kaikeyi: It is believed that Kanak Bhawan was a gift from Queen Kaikeyi to Goddess Sita.
- Personal Palace: The temple is the personal palace of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
- Multiple Reconstructions: The belief in multiple reconstructions reflects the enduring importance of this sacred site.
- Idol Significance: The three pairs of Rama and Sita idols, each with their own story, add spiritual depth to the temple.
Kanak Bhawan Timings
Kanak Bhawan is open to the public from Monday to Sunday. Visit us during the following hours:
- Morning: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening: 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Kanak Bhawan Located in Ayodhya
Kanak Bhawan is located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Here are the details:
- Address: Q5XX+6M4, Tulsi Nagar, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123, India
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM