KARNI MATA TEMPLE OF RAJASTHAN
(The temple where rats are revered)
In the heart of Deshnok, a small town near Bikaner in Rajasthan, stands one of the most unusual temples in the world — the Karni Mata Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of faith, compassion, and the fascinating blend of legend and devotion found in India’s spiritual traditions.
Who was Karni Mata? Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, was a 15th-century saint and mystic who was deeply respected by the people of Rajasthan. She is said to have performed many miracles and helped people selflessly. The rulers of Bikaner and Jodhpur considered her their family deity and sought her blessings before any important decision or battle.
The legend behind the temple: According to legend, one day Karni Mata’s stepson, Laxman, drowned while trying to drink water from a pond. The goddess, deeply saddened, requested Yama, the god of death, to restore his life. Yama refused.
Then, Karni Mata declared with her divine powers that no member of her family would ever go to Yama’s world again. Instead, they would be reborn as rats and continue to serve her faithfully.
Since then, it is believed that the thousands of rats living in the temple are the reincarnated souls of her devotees.
The Holy Rats: The temple is home to over 25,000 rats, known as “Kabbas.” These rats are treated with great respect and devotion. Devotees feed them grains, milk, and sweets, and walk carefully so as not to harm them.
Spotting a white rat among the black ones is considered extremely auspicious, as they are believed to represent Karni Mata herself or her sons.
Architecture and significance: The temple, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the early 20th century, is a beautiful example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Its marble floors, silver gates, and intricate carvings reflect both artistic beauty and spiritual grandeur.
Every year, thousands of devotees and tourists visit this temple — not out of fear or curiosity, but out of deep reverence and wonder at this living example of harmony between humans and animals.
A living symbol of faith: The Karni Mata Temple reminds us that faith and compassion can exist in the most unexpected forms. It shows that every life, no matter how small, carries divine energy.
🌟 Did You Know?
● The temple houses more than 25,000 rats, all well-fed and protected.
● If a rat accidentally dies, it must be replaced with one made of solid silver!
● Devotees believe that eating food nibbled by the rats brings good fortune.
● The white rats, very few in number, are considered sacred messengers of the Goddess.
● The temple is especially crowded during Navratri, when special prayers and fairs are held.
Moral / Message: The Karni Mata Temple stands as a reminder that true devotion lies in respect for all forms of life — for in the eyes of the divine, every creature is sacred.
