The Karni Mata Temple stands in Deshnok, about 30 kilometers from Bikaner, Rajasthan. Devotees visit this temple to worship Karni Mata, a 14th-century mystic who followers believe is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. People recognize the temple not just for its religious value but also for its holy rats. These rats roam the temple freely. Devotees feed them and protect them. Visitors often come with curiosity but leave with deep respect. The temple gives both spiritual peace and cultural wonder.
Karni Mata lived a life of service and miracles. People from all around respected her power and wisdom. When her stepson Laxman drowned, she begged Yama, the god of death, to return him. Yama refused at first. Karni Mata did not give up. Eventually, Yama agreed and allowed Laxman and her other sons to return as rats. Karni Mata accepted this and gave the rats a sacred place to live. Her followers believe that these rats carry the souls of her family. Because of this belief, they treat every rat with honor and care.
The temple features stunning Mughal-style marble work. Craftsmen carved fine designs into the white stone walls. Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner donated the silver doors, which still stand at the entrance. The main shrine displays Karni Mata holding a trident. Sculptures of lions, her sacred animal, surround her idol. Devotees light lamps and offer food around her image. The design and structure reflect both devotion and royal support. Visitors admire the mix of art and spirituality in every corner of the temple.
The temple houses over 25,000 rats, which locals call “kabas.” These rats move freely through the temple. Devotees believe they carry holy souls and offer them food like milk, grains, and sweets. People feel lucky if a rat runs over their feet. They believe this brings blessings. Some even wait patiently to spot a white rat, which represents Karni Mata or her sons. If someone accidentally kills a rat, they must replace it with a silver rat idol. Temple guards and visitors make sure the rats stay safe and fed. No one harms them. People show great care and patience inside the temple.
The temple becomes vibrant during Navratri and the Karni Mata Fair. Thousands of devotees gather here during these festivals. Priests perform special rituals. Musicians play devotional songs. The temple glows with lamps and colorful decorations. Families offer large amounts of food for both Karni Mata and the rats. The energy feels powerful, yet peaceful. Worshippers chant, pray, and walk barefoot through the holy ground. Many believe Karni Mata blesses them during these sacred days.
Karni Mata Temple challenges normal ideas about purity and animals. Despite the number of rats, people report no cases of illness from the temple. The temple remains clean, even with thousands of rats living inside. This strange fact strengthens people’s faith. They believe Karni Mata protects the temple and its visitors. The temple teaches respect for all life, even the smallest creatures. It shows how faith, mythology, and culture blend into one powerful experience. People from all walks of life visit, whether out of belief or curiosity.
The Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok offers more than just a religious site. It tells a story of deep faith, bold legends, and spiritual strength. Visitors come to witness something unforgettable. They leave with a sense of wonder and respect. The rats, the rituals, and the history all come together to create a temple unlike any other in the world.
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