When equal profit and loss are mentioned at two selling prices, the cost price is simply the midpoint of those prices: \(C=\frac{SP_1+SP_2}{2}\).
Step 1: Set up the equation.
Let cost price be \(C\).
Profit at Rupees 996 \(=996-C\).
Loss at Rupees 894 \(=C-894\).
Given equal: \(996-C=C-894\).
Step 2: Solve for \(C\).
\[ 996+894=2C \Rightarrow 1890=2C \Rightarrow C=945. \] \[ \boxed{Rupees \;945} \]