By Yuvraj
The famous Karni Mata Temple is located in Deshnoke, near Bikaner in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is one of the most unique temples in the world, primarily because it is home to thousands of rats, which are considered sacred and are revered.
Key Facts about Karni Mata Temple:
The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a female Hindu sage believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
Famous For: The temple is inhabited by over 25,000 black rats, known as kabbas. These rats are considered holy and are protected.
White Rats: A few white rats are also seen occasionally. Spotting one is considered very auspicious.
Built in: The current structure was completed in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner.
Architecture: The temple is built in Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, with marble carvings and silver gates.
Legends and Beliefs:
According to legend, Karni Mata’s stepson, Laxman, drowned in a pond. She pleaded with Yama (the god of death) to revive him. When Yama refused, Karni Mata resurrected him herself and declared that members of her lineage would be reincarnated as rats.
Devotees believe that the souls of Karni Mata’s devotees inhabit the rats and will be reborn as humans in the future.
Cultural Significance:
The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, especially for the Charan community.
Devotees offer prasad (food) which is first eaten by the rats and then consumed by the devotees, believing it to be holy .