Rajasthan is famous in the country and the world for its unique religious traditions and historical temples. Karni Mata Temple located in Deshnoke town of Bikaner district is one such famous religious place, where thousands of rats are seen roaming freely in the temple premises. Devotees consider these rats sacred and affectionately call them 'Kaaba'. This temple dedicated to Mata Karni attracts tourists from India and abroad due to its faith, architecture and unique traditions.

Who was Karni Mata?

Karni Mata is worshiped as the folk goddess of Rajasthan. According to popular beliefs, he was born in the 14th century. She is considered to be the incarnation of Maa Durga. There is deep reverence for Karni Mata in many areas of Rajasthan. Karni Mata is also said to have a special place in the history of the royal families of Bikaner and Jodhpur. It is believed that Karni Mata had blessed the Rathore rulers and people of many royal families of Rajasthan consider her as their worshipable goddess. The temple located at Deshnok is the main center of this religious tradition.

The temple is situated in Deshnok of Bikaner.

Karni Mata Temple is located in Deshnoke town, about 30 kilometers from Bikaner city. A beautiful marble entrance gate and silver decorative artefacts can be seen in the temple. The carvings on the doors and interiors of the temple add to its architectural beauty. The present form of the temple is believed to have been completed in the early decades of the 20th century during the reign of Maharaja Ganga Singh, the ruler of Bikaner. The idol of Mata Karni is installed in the temple, where devotees offer darshan and worship.

Why are rats considered sacred in temples?

The most famous feature of Karni Mata Temple is the large number of rats living here. According to religious belief, these rats are considered symbols of the spirits associated with Rani Mata's family and followers. Therefore, devotees do not harm them and arrange food and milk for them. Rats in the temple are called 'Kaaba'. Devotees believe that their darshan is auspicious. If a white rat is seen among rats, it is considered a sign of special good fortune. However, all these beliefs are part of religious faith. Food for rats is kept in the temple and devotees carefully observe their activities. This experience is quite different for the people coming here, because such a large number of rats are not seen together in most of the temples of India.

Mythological story to Karni Mata temple

According to folklore, after the death of a family member of Karni Mata, she prayed to Yamraj to revive him. It is believed that Yamraj blessed the members of that family to be born as rats. For this reason, rats are given special respect in the temple. Different versions of this story are prevalent. This should be understood as a religious folklore rather than a historical event. This belief is considered the basis of the special tradition of the temple.

Crowd of devotees gather during Navratri

Devotees visit Karni Mata temple throughout the year, but there is special splendor here during Chaitra and Shardiya Navratri. These days, a large number of devotees come for worship, religious ceremonies and darshan. Along with people coming from different parts of the country, foreign tourists also come to see the unique tradition of the temple.

How to reach Karni Mata Temple?

Karni Mata Temple of Deshnoke is connected to Bikaner by road and rail. The temple can be reached from Bikaner via taxi, private vehicle and local transport. Deshnoke railway station is also located near the temple, providing convenience to devotees traveling by train. Karni Mata Temple is an important part of the religious and cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The tradition associated with rats, marble architecture and reverence for Karni Mata make it a special religious place. This temple shows that the folk beliefs and traditions of Rajasthan are still deeply connected in the lives of the people.