In Hindu mythology, Tataka is the demoness slain by Rama in the forest. Her episode occurs early in the Ramayana, when Rama is still a young prince receiving instruction and guidance from the sage Vishvamitra.
Vishvamitra asks Rama and Lakshmana to protect his sacrificial rituals from demons. During their journey, they enter the forest controlled by Tataka, who is described as a powerful rakshasi. Rama initially hesitates because she is female, but Vishvamitra instructs him that restoring safety and justice requires defeating her. Rama then kills Tataka with an arrow.
The story is important because it marks one of Rama’s first major acts as a warrior and demonstrates his obedience to a revered teacher. It also begins the series of events that leads Rama to Mithila, where he encounters Sita and takes part in the contest involving Shiva’s bow.
Tataka is sometimes confused with Surpanakha, who later appears in the Ramayana and helps trigger the conflict with Lanka. They are distinct characters with different roles in the epic.