Karni Mata Temple

The Karni Mata Temple, located in Deshnok, a small town near Bikaner in the state of Rajasthan, India, is a place of unique religious significance and a testament to the fascinating cultural diversity of the region. Also known as the "Rat Temple," it is dedicated to Karni Mata, a revered Hindu sage believed to be an incarnation of the goddess Durga. The temple's most distinctive feature is its resident population of rats, which are considered sacred and worshipped by devotees. It is said that these rats, also known as "kabbas," are Karni Mata's descendants and are believed to be incarnations of her devotees. Pilgrims from all over India and beyond visit the temple to seek blessings and witness this unusual manifestation of devotion.

The legend associated with Karni Mata goes back several centuries. According to folklore, Karni Mata, born in the Charan community, was a mystic and spiritual leader known for her miracles and acts of compassion. It is said that when her stepson drowned, she implored Yama, the god of death, to bring him back to life. Yama eventually agreed and granted her the power to reincarnate souls. Karni Mata declared that her family members would no longer face death and would be reborn as rats. Upon entering the temple complex, visitors are immediately struck by the sight of hundreds of rats freely roaming the premises. These rats are considered highly auspicious, and devotees believe that spotting a white rat, which is particularly rare, brings immense good fortune.

History and Legend:
The Karni Mata Temple has a history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have been built in the late 14th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a mystic and devotee of the Hindu deity Durga. She is said to have possessed miraculous powers and is revered as the incarnation of Goddess Durga by her followers. One of the most famous legends associated with the temple involves the story of Laxman, Karni Mata's stepson. Laxman drowned in a pond while attempting to drink water. Karni Mata implored Yama, the god of death, to revive him. When Yama refused, Karni Mata, in her divine rage, decreed that all members of her family would be reborn as rats until they could be born again as humans. This legend is believed to be the reason for the presence of rats in the temple.

The Unique Residents:
The distinguishing feature of the Karni Mata Temple is its resident rats. These rats, known as "kabbas," are considered sacred and are believed to be the incarnations of Karni Mata's family members. It is believed that coming into contact with these rats, or even consuming food that has been nibbled on by them, brings good fortune and blessings. The temple complex houses thousands of rats that roam freely within its marble halls and courtyards. These rats are well-fed by temple caretakers and are considered to be holy. They are remarkably tame and are used to the presence of visitors. Pilgrims who visit the temple often feed the rats with offerings of sweets and grains, believing that it will bring them spiritual merit and blessings.

Temple Architecture:
The Karni Mata Temple is an architectural marvel in itself. The temple is built in the Mughal style of architecture and features intricate marble work, stunning facades, and ornate pillars. The main sanctum, where the idol of Karni Mata is enshrined, is surrounded by a silver gate and canopy. The inner sanctum is adorned with idols of Karni Mata and other deities. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to seek blessings from Karni Mata. The temple's interior is dimly lit, creating a mystical ambiance that adds to the overall experience.

Religious Practices:
The temple sees a continuous stream of devotees throughout the year, with a significant influx during festivals and special occasions. Aarti (ritual prayer) is performed at regular intervals, and devotees participate enthusiastically, seeking the blessings of Karni Mata. Many devotees believe that if they spot a white rat among the thousands of brown rats, it is a particularly auspicious sign and a blessing from Karni Mata herself.

Visiting the Karni Mata Temple:
- The temple is easily accessible from Bikaner, which is approximately 30 kilometers away.
- Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises.
- It's advisable to be respectful and cautious while walking inside the temple due to the rats.
- Offering food to the rats is a common practice, and you can purchase prasad (offering) within the temple complex.
- If you have an aversion to rats or are uncomfortable with them, it's best to reconsider visiting the temple, as the rats are an integral part of the experience.

The Karni Mata Temple is a unique and fascinating destination that combines religion, folklore, and a remarkable ecological phenomenon. It's a place where thousands of rats are revered and cared for, offering a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience for those who visit. Whether you're a curious traveler or a devout pilgrim, a visit to this temple is bound to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the diverse and intriguing religious practices found in India.