Sita Ki Rasoi is a sacred site in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, believed to be the royal kitchen of Goddess Sita after her marriage to Lord Rama. It is now a temple and a cultural heritage site, symbolizing Sita’s hospitality, care, and devotion.
History & Mythology:
According to the Ramayana, after Sita married Lord Rama, she started her new life in Ayodhya’s royal palace. Being a devoted wife and queen, Sita personally cooked meals for Lord Rama, his brothers (Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna), and the royal family. This kitchen became a symbol of Sita’s love, care, and duty as a wife and daughter-in-law. It is believed that Sita, known for her humility, ensured that no one in the kingdom remained hungry, reflecting her compassion and generosity.
Temple & Structure:
- Small Kitchen Setup: The temple has a small mud stove (chulha), , and symbolic representations of food grains, depicting the ancient royal kitchen.
- Idols of Sita and Rama: Along with Sita, idols of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna, and Urmila (Sita’s sister) are worshipped here.
- Sacred Offerings: Devotees offer food and grains as a symbol of gratitude and seek blessings for a prosperous household.
Significance & Rituals:
- A Temple of Goddess Annapurna’s Blessings: It is believed that offering food here brings prosperity and happiness in one’s home.
- Associated with Women’s Well-being: Many women visit this temple to seek blessings for marital harmony and family welfare.
- Prasadam (Holy Food): Devotees receive special prasad (sacred food offerings), including rice, lentils, and sweets.
Temple Timings:
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Aarti Timings:
- Morning Aarti: 6:30 AM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
Location & How to Reach:
- Address: Near Ram Janmabhoomi, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- By Road: Connected to major cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, and Faizabad by road.
- By Train: Ayodhya Junction is the nearest railway station, about 3 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Ayodhya International Airport (Maharishi Valmiki International Airport). Lucknow Airport is around 140 km away.