Introduction
Kanak Bhawan is believ to have been a gift to Devi Sita from Kaikeyi shortly after her marriage to Lord Rama. According to legend, King Dasharath requested Vishwakarma to construct a heavenly palace at the site, serving as a private residence for Lord Rama and Devi Sita. The Sita Mahal Ayodhya palace had a strict rule prohibiting the entry of any males, even Hanuman adhered to this regulation. Tradition holds that Vikramaditya initially built the temple, later renovated by Queen Vrishbhanu Kunwari of Orchha in 1891 AD.
According to an inscription, Maharaj Kush of Dwapar Yug is credit with establishing the statues of Lord Ram and Devi Sita in Kanak Bhawan. However, a more prevalent belief is that Lord Krishna installed another pair of deities on the mound before King Vikramaditya reconstructed the temple, followed by Samudragupta. The temple reportedly houses three pairs of consecrated idols, all representing Lord Rama and Devi Sita. Rani Sri Vrishbhan Kunwari installed the largest pair, while King Vikramaditya established the medium-sized one. The smallest idol was said to be given by Lord Krishna to a woman, instructing her to bury it where she would eventually be laid to rest. This idol was later discovered by Vikramaditya.
The temple welcomes visitors all year round from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and there is no entry fee for pilgrims; everyone is invited. Kanak Bhawan is conveniently accessible by air, road, and railway. The nearest airport is Lucknow International Airport, and Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation buses are available for transportation. For those opting for the railway, Faizabad and Ayodhya stations are well-connected and easily reachable by road.
Puja:
The temple hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm. Some notable occasions include:
- Ram Navmi: This celebration marks the birthday of Lord Rama.
- Janki Navmi: Observed exactly one month after Ram Navmi, this festival commemorates the birthday of Devi Sita.
- Phool Bangla: During this festival, the entire temple and its idols are adorned with flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
- Jhula: Extending over 15 days, this festival involves bringing the deities out of the sanctum to showcase them on a swing or “Jhula.”
A Divine Abode
Kanak Bhavan, an architectural marvel, served as the home for Lord Rama and Mother Sita. According to ancient traditions, King Dasharatha of Ayodhya commissioned its construction for Queen Kaikeyi, guided by the skilled craftsmen under the direction of Vishwakarma. The palace, occupying a vast fourteen kos of land, was consider the epitome of divine opulence.
Legen has it that this sacr structure was use by Kaikeyi to present Sita to Lord Ram after their marriage. It held a special place in the hearts of the divine couple, serving as their residence. The belief is that no male could enter any of Kanak Bhavan’s annexes, emphasizing its sanctity.
Revered through Ages
Over the years, Kanak Bhavan underwent repairs and renovations, and it is said that even Hanuman Ji, the most devoted follower of Lord Ram, found a place in its courtyard with a gentle nudge. The sanctum sanctorum of Kanak Bhavan is said to house only the divine idols of Lord Shri Ram and Janaki.
Kush, the son of Lord Rama, erected statues of his parents in Kanak Bhavan during his visit to Shridham in Treta Yuga, commemorating his cherished childhood memories. The structure was rebuilt several times, with references to its existence found in ancient texts.
Historical Significance
An inscription dating back to the Vikramaditya period discovered at Kanak Bhavan bears the inscription “Varna of the Dwapar era.” It narrates that after slaying Jarasandha, Lord Krishna visited Ayodhya. Where he encountered Padmasana Devi practicing penance on the mound of Kanak Bhavan. This led to the rebuilding of the mound and the erection of idols, marking a significant event in the temple’s history.
Samudragupta, during the Gupta Empire, also contribut to the temple’s preservation by having it repair around 2070 years ago, according to the inscription. In 1761, the devotee poet Rasik Ali rebuilt the Ashtakunj of Kanak Bhavan. The present structure was construct by the King of Orchha during Treta Yuga, the era when Kaikeyi gift it to her daughter-in-law, Sita Ji.
Modern Preservation
Despite facing demolitions over time, Kanak Bhavan retained its significance in scriptures and religious history. Maharani Vrishabhanu Kunwari, wife of Sawai Mahendra Pratap Singh, the monarch of the Orchha kingdom. Played a pivotal role in overseeing the construction of the current Kanak Bhavan in 1891. She not only restored the ancient idols but also consecrated two new Deities of Ram Sita.
The temple today stands as a testament to devotion, with pilgrims visiting the sleeping place of Lord Rama near the sacrificial altar. The cistern, surrounded by eight sakhis’ kunjas, each dedicated to one of the eight companions of Sita Ji, creates a serene atmosphere for devotees.
Religious Practices and Festivals
Kanak Bhavan remains deeply rooted in religious practices, attracting saints and devotees who feel a profound connection to the divine. The temple celebrates Lord Shri Ram’s incarnation with grand festivities. Including live depictions of Rama swinging during the month of Sawan.
Throughout the year, various festivals such as Annakoot Deepawali, Mahalakshmi Poojan, Deepawali, Annakoot. Gyaras, and Teej are joyously celebrat at the temple grounds. Devotees participate in these festivals, reinforcing their faith in the divine presence within Kanak Bhavan.
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Conclusion
Kanak Bhavan in Ayodhya stands as a timeless testament to the divine love between Lord Rama and Sita Ji. The historical and religious significance of this sacred abode, coupled. With its architectural grandeur, continues to captivate the hearts of devotees. As pilgrims from far and wide visit Kanak Bhavan, they not only witness a physical structure but also experience. The enduring spiritual connection embedded in its walls – a connection that transcends time and resonates. With the eternal love of Lord Shri Ram and Sita Ji. Sita Mahal Ayodhya, as represented. By Kanak Bhavan, remains a beacon of devotion and a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Ayodhya.
