The Rat Temple of India : Where 20,000 Rats are Revered as Sacred Beings
The Enchanting Karni Mata Temple
Bikaner, a vibrant city in the heart of the desert state of Rajasthan, India, is not only famous for its magnificent palaces, forts and Bhujia but also for its religious and spiritual landmarks. One such unique and captivating temple that draws pilgrims and tourists alike is the Karni Mata Temple also known as the “Temple of Rats”, this shrine is a testimony to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region and stands as a fascinating testament to the unwavering faith of its devotees.
Historical Significance
The Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a revered 15th-century Hindu warrior sage believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, Hindu Goddess of power and victory. According to legends, Karni Mata possessed extraordinary powers and was considered the protector of the poor and downtrodden. She was known for her divine ability to bring the dead back to life, and it is said that she performed several miracles during her lifetime.
One remarkable aspect of Karni Mata’s legacy is her ability to prophesy for kings and people. Her divine guidance played a crucial role in the foundation of the new kingdoms of Jodhpur and Bikaner, as she blessed Rao Jodha and Rao Bika, the founders of these states.
She is the official deity of the Royal families of Bikaner and Jodhpur. With her blessings, Rao Jodha and Rao Bika founded new kingdoms of Jodhpur and Bikaner. At the request of the Maharajas, she laid down the foundations of Bikaner and Mehrangarh Fort, the two most important forts in the region. The founder of Bikaner and Jodhpur forts seeked her blessing before building the forts and they stand till this date.
The Legend of the Rats
The temple is famous for the presence of an incredible number of rats that inhabit its premises. These rats, also known as “kabbas,” are considered sacred and are venerated by the temple’s devotees. Legend has it that when Karni Mata’s stepson, Laxman, drowned in a pond, she intervened and brought him back to life. In order to revive Laxman, Karniji had to travel to the yamloka and asked Yamraja(god of death) to give back her son. Yamraja refused and stated his inability to do so since it would be against the rules of the underworld. Karniji took Laxman with her anyway, breaking the birth cycle for him. As a result, Karniji ordained that her Charan devotees, after death, will be reborn as mice in Deshnoke before being reborn as humans again. These rats are believed to be the reincarnated souls of her family members, and spotting a white rat among them is considered extremely auspicious.
The presence of rats in human environments can indeed pose health risks as they are known to carry various diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Despite the presence of a large rat population within the temple premises, there are beliefs among the locals that these rats are blessed and do not cause harm or spread diseases to the visitors.
Prashad, which is offered to the Goddess is eaten by the rats and devotees too consume it. Even though the presence of a rat can close a restaurant, eating prashad consumed by “kabbas” is considered to be safe here.
Architectural Marvel
The Karni Mata Temple showcases stunning architecture that reflects the intricate craftsmanship of the bygone era. Located in the town of Deshnoke, about 30 kilometers from Bikaner, the temple’s façade is a beautiful blend of marble and stone, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings depicting the life and miracles of Karni Mata. The temple complex consists of a series of courtyards, halls, and shrines, each adding to the spiritual aura of the place.
Religious Practices
The temple attracts throngs of devotees every day who come to seek blessings from Karni Mata. As per the customs, visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises as a sign of respect. The rats, considered holy, roam freely within the temple complex, and feeding them is considered an act of devotion and brings good fortune. The rats are not to be harmed by anyone.
Tourist Attraction
Apart from the religious significance, the Karni Mata Temple also intrigues tourists from different parts of the world due to its unusual association with rats. The temple offers a unique and mystical experience that is hard to find anywhere else. Travelers are often in awe of the temple’s ambiance and the way the rats are revered, making it a surreal and unforgettable experience.
While the temple is an intriguing destination, visitors are advised to exercise caution as walking barefoot amidst a large number of rats can be challenging, especially for those with rodent phobia or health issues. Additionally, proper sanitation and hygiene measures are essential to ensure a safe and pleasant visit.
Conclusion
The Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner is a remarkable spiritual landmark, steeped in legends and religious fervor. Its unique association with rats and the belief in their sacredness adds to the temple’s allure, making it an enchanting place to explore for travelers seeking both spiritual enlightenment and cultural fascination. If you ever find yourself in the enchanting land of Bikaner, a visit to this temple should undoubtedly be on your itinerary, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary world of devotion, faith, and tradition.
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