Karni Mata Temple, located in Deshnok town of Bikaner district of Rajasthan, is counted among the unique temples not only of the country but also of the world. This temple is a center of special attraction for devotees and tourists due to its white marble carvings, huge silver doors and thousands of rats roaming freely in the temple premises. It is called 'Kaaba' here and devotees consider it sacred.
Belief related to Karni Mata
According to popular belief, Karni Mata was a great ascetic and goddess. He is believed to be born in the 14th century. She was also revered as the family deity of many royal families of Rajasthan. It is believed that Karni Mata played an important role in the history of the dynasties of Bikaner and Jodhpur. The life of Karni Mata is said to be associated with sacrifice, penance and public welfare. Many stories related to his spiritual power are still narrated in the folk traditions of Rajasthan.
What is the secret of rats in the temple?
The biggest feature of the temple is the rats living here. According to religious belief, these are not ordinary rats, but are considered to be the reincarnations of the followers of Karni Mata. It is said that the Mother Goddess had given the boon to her devotees to be born as a rat after death. For this reason, killing or harming rats is considered prohibited in the temple. Devotees feed them and take darshan by passing among them. White rats are considered very rare among these rats. There is a belief among the devotees that the sight of a white rat is auspicious and it is considered a special blessing of Karni Mata.
The architecture of the temple is also special
The present form of Karni Mata temple gives a glimpse of Rajput style of architecture. Beautiful marble carvings can be seen at the entrance and interiors of the temple. The silver doors of the temple further enhance its grandeur.
Crowd gathers during Navratri
Special worship is done in the temple during Chaitra and Shardiya Navratri. Apart from Rajasthan, devotees from different parts of the country reach here. There is movement of devotees in the temple throughout the year. Karni Mata Temple of Deshnoke is such a confluence of faith, folklore and unique tradition, whose identity cannot be separated from the religious heritage of Rajasthan. The thousands of Kaaba present here make this temple one of the most unique religious places in India.
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