Read about the Karni Mata Temple, a temple unlike any other. Learn the history of Karni Mata Temple and know about the fascinating world of rats at this India’s popular temple of sacred Rats.
Located in Deshnok, a small town near Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Temple of Rats or Karni Mata Mandir, is a Hindu temple admired for its rich cultural heritage and history. The temple is unique in various ways, but what makes it truly fascinating is the fact that it is home to thousands of rats, which are considered sacred and worshipped by devotees.
Karni Mata Temple History
According to the legends, Karni Mata, the patron deity of the temple, was a mystic and a saint who lived in the 14th century. She was respected by her followers for her miraculous powers and her ability to perform miracles. The story goes that one of her followers, a child, died and Karni Mata tried to bring him back to life. When she failed, she decided to appeal to Yama, the god of death, and ask him to restore the child’s life. Yama agreed, but only on the condition that he and his followers would be allowed to be reincarnated as rats and live in Karni Mata’s temple. Karni Mata agreed, and since then, the temple has been home to thousands of rats, which are believed to be the reincarnated followers of Karni Mata.
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The Rat Temple of India
The rats in the temple are considered to be holy and are worshipped by the devotees. They are called “kabbas” in the local language and are fed and taken care of by temple priests and devotees. The rats are also believed to be carriers of good luck and fortune, and it is considered auspicious to see them or have them run over one’s feet.
The Architecture and the Tourists
The temple itself is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture, with its marble façade, silver doors, and intricate carvings. The temple complex also has several smaller temples dedicated to other deities, and there is a holy pond called the Kapil Sarovar, which is believed to have healing powers.
Visiting the Karni Mata Temple can be a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists. The atmosphere inside the temple is chaotic and frenetic, with thousands of rats running around, being fed and worshipped by the devotees. The rats are everywhere, on the walls, the floors, and even on the food that is offered to them. Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple, and it is advisable to cover one’s head, as a mark of respect.
The temple is a popular tourist attraction and draws visitors from all over the world. The rats here are considered to be a symbol of devotion and faith, and the temple is seen as a place of pilgrimage for many. The Karni Mata Temple is a unique and fascinating place, steeped in history and mythology. It is a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of the people of Rajasthan and a reminder of the power of legend and tradition. The temple signifies the diversity and richness of India’s cultural heritage.
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