The legend of Shabari, known for her meticulous care in offering Lord Rama already tasted berries, inspired the name of a recently established Ayodhya restaurant. However, the eatery’s reputation took a hit when a bill of Rs 252 for tea and toasts went viral on social media, leading the Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) to issue a show-cause notice to the restaurant owner. According to the ADA, the budget-friendly establishment, catering to devotees and pilgrims, allegedly violated its agreement by charging Rs 10 each for a cup of tea and two pieces of toast.
Situated in Arundhati Bhawan near the Ram temple, the Shabari Rasoi restaurant, owned by Gujarat-based M/s Kavach Facility Management Ltd., offers 50 dining seats and 100 hostel beds for guests at Rs 50 per night. The ADA has granted the restaurant three days to explain the billing discrepancy, warning of lease termination if clarification is not provided within the stipulated timeframe.
Satyendra Mishra, the project head of Shabari Rasoi, defended the restaurant, attributing the viral bill to a scheme aimed at gaining social media attention. He emphasized that the establishment provides amenities comparable to those in large hotels and has promptly responded to the ADA’s notice.”
