Rajasthan, a land of grand palaces, majestic forts, and vibrant culture, holds an array of historical and religious gems. Among these, one of the most intriguing and enigmatic is the Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner. Fondly referred to as the ‘Rat Temple,’ it is unique not just in India but in the world.
This blog tells about the temple’s history, cultural significance, and the captivating beliefs that surround this iconic place of worship.
The Origins: Who Was Karni Mata?
The Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a revered 14th-century deity believed to be an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga. Known for her miracles and acts of compassion, Karni Mata was deeply respected during her lifetime. She is still considered the family deity of the royal families of Bikaner and Jodhpur.
Legend has it that Karni Mata played a key role in the founding of both Bikaner and Jodhpur, advising rulers and helping establish their reigns. However, what truly sets her apart from other saints or goddesses is the mysterious relationship she is believed to have with rats, or as they are called here, Kabas.
READ MORE: Amber Fort, Jaipur: All You Need to Know
Why are there rats in the Karni Mata Temple?
These rats, known as “kabbas” or “little children”. These are considered sacred and are believed to be the reincarnated descendants of Karni Mata’s family. The temple complex is home to thousands of rats that freely scurry around the temple premises. Pilgrims come from far and wide to feed and worship these rodents.
According to legend, when the son of one of Karni Mata’s devotees died, she pleaded with Yama, the god of death, to revive him. Yama, however, granted a different kind of boon: the boy, along with all of Karni Mata’s male devotees, would be reincarnated as rats and live in her temple forever.
Today, there are estimated to be over 25,000 rats within the temple grounds. These rats are fed, cared for, and even worshiped by the temple’s visitors. They are known as Kabas, and their well-being is believed to directly impact the prosperity and fortune of the local community. So strong is this belief that harming a rat, even accidentally, requires the offender to donate a rat made of solid gold to the temple to atone for the sin.
The Temple Architecture: A Rajput Marvel
Located in Deshnoke, around 30 kilometers from the city of Bikaner, the Karni Mata Temple is a stunning example of Rajput architecture. Built from white marble, the temple features intricately carved jalis (latticed windows), chhatris (domed pavilions), and a grand silver gate that leads to the inner sanctum. The silver doors and marble flooring lend a pristine look to the structure, while the outer walls are adorned with detailed carvings depicting scenes from the life of Karni Mata.
At the heart of the temple lies the idol of Karni Mata, adorned with a crown and garlands, but the real fascination begins with what surrounds her-the thousands of holy rats that freely roam the temple premises.
The Mystical White Rats
While most of the rats at Karni Mata Temple are brown or black, spotting a white rat is considered a divine blessing. According to legend, the white rats are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata and her family members. Pilgrims and tourists alike eagerly keep an eye out for these rare white rats, believing that just a glimpse of them will bring good luck and fulfillment of wishes.
Visitors are often seen offering prasad, a sacred food offering, which the rats nibble on and share among themselves. Eating the prasad after it has been tasted by the holy rats is seen as an auspicious act, believed to bring blessings and protection.
READ MORE: Hawa Mahal, Jaipur: All you need to know
Cultural Significance: Faith Beyond Reason
The Karni Mata Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance in Rajasthan. While the concept of worshiping rats may seem unusual to outsiders, for the locals, it is a deep expression of faith. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to the temple during the Navratri festival, which celebrates the nine forms of the goddess Durga. The temple becomes a hive of activity, with rituals, prayers, and offerings being made in the name of Karni Mata.
What makes the temple even more fascinating is that despite the massive number of rats, no visitor has ever reported any outbreak of disease. The rats live harmoniously with the devotees and are believed to embody a divine presence, protected from any harm or illness. This harmonious coexistence between humans and rats at the temple stands as a symbol of mutual respect and reverence.
Visitor’s Experience : What to Expect at Karni Mata Temple
For those visiting the Karni Mata Temple, the experience is unlike any other. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped by an atmosphere of devotion, curiosity, and a sense of the mystical. The sight of thousands of rats scampering freely may be overwhelming for first-time visitors, but as you spend more time inside, the divine ambiance begins to take over.
One of the most unique aspects of the visit is the footwear rule. Since rats are considered holy, visitors are required to enter the temple barefoot, a tradition upheld in most Hindu temples. This gives people a close connection with the sacred grounds, despite the presence of rats.
The temple also has a strict no-harm policy towards rats. Any accidental killing of a rat requires an immediate and significant penance. This level of devotion and care for these small creatures is something that sets Karni Mata Temple apart from any other religious site.
How to Reach Karni Mata Temple?
Reaching the Karni Mata Temple is relatively simple. The nearest city is Bikaner, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from Bikaner to Deshnoke, where the temple is located.
For those looking to experience Rajasthan’s regal charm, combining a visit to the Junagarh Fort and Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner along with a trip to Karni Mata Temple makes for an enriching itinerary.
Conclusion: A Temple like No Other
The Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner is not just a religious site; it is a testament to the power of faith, culture, and tradition. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or someone with a curiosity for the unusual, a visit to this temple will leave you spellbound. The sacred rats, the awe-inspiring architecture, and the deep-rooted legends make this temple a one-of-a-kind experience.
So, the next time you plan a trip to Rajasthan, don’t miss the chance to visit this marvel of devotion, where thousands of rats are not just inhabitants but are considered holy beings, embodying the divine presence of Karni Mata herself.
Want to Read Such Mysterious Blogs, Stay Tuned to Pathbeat
