Legend of Karni Mata Temple
There are different versions of stories that surround the history of the Karni Mata Temple. According to the most popular legend, Laxman, who was Karni Mata's stepson, drowned in a pond in Kapil Sarovar in Kolayat Tehsil when he was drinking water from the lake. Karni Mata prayed to Yama, the god of death, to save her son's life. The Lord first refused, but eventually gave in, and allowed reincarnation as rats to Laxman and all of Mata Karni's male children.
According to another version, an army of 20,000 soldiers deserted a nearby battle and fled to Deshnoke. When Mata Karni came to know about their act of desertion, which was considered to be a sin and was punishable by death, she spared their lives but turned them into rats. The temple was offered to them as a place to stay, and the army of soldiers expressed their gratitude by promising to serve Karni Mata forever. One can spot a few white rats among the black ones. These white rats are considered to be Karni Mata herself and her four sons.
Architecture of Karni Mata Temple
The present structure of the temple was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner and dates back to the 15th century. The entire structure is influenced by the Mughal style of architecture.The beautiful facade of the Karni Mata Temple is built entirely in marble. Pairs of silver doors can be seen inside the temple complex before the main shrine of the goddess. These solid silvers doors were donated by Maharaja Gaj Singh when he had visited the glorious temple. Across the doorway, one can spot more silver doors with panels that depict the various legends of the goddess.
The image of the goddess is placed in the main shrine, along with holy things at her feet. Surrounded by rats, the 75-centimetre tall image holds a Trishul (trident) in one of her hands. Her image is complete with a crown and a garland of flowers. Images of her sisters are placed on either side. Further beautification of the temple was done by Kundanlal Verma of the Hyderabad-based Karni Jewellers in 1999. He also donated the marble carvings and the silver gates that lead to the temple.
Rats at the Karni Mata Temple
The 25,000 black and few white rats that live here are all considered holy and are worshipped. The rats are allowed to move freely all around the temple. These small creatures appear from crevices in the marble covered walls and floorings and pass over the bare feet of the devotees. Eating the food that has been nibbled on by the rats is considered to be honourable, and for the same reason, people offer sweets, milk and other offerings to these rats.
If any rat is killed by mistake, it must be replaced with one that is made of solid gold as penance for the crime. Sighting a white rate is considered to be especially auspicious, and people all around can be found luring the white rats out of their holes by offering them various sweets.
Karni Mata Fair at Karni Mata Temple
The Karni Mata Fair is a major event that takes place twice a year at the temple. The first and larger fair takes place in March to April during the Navratras from Chaitra Shukla Ekam to Chaitra Shukla Dashmi. The second fair is held in September - October, also during the Navratras, from Ashvin Shukla to Ashwin Shukla Dashmi. During these fairs, thousands of people visit the temple by foot.
Karni Mata Temple Timings and Entry Fees
The temple opens to the general public at 4:00 AM, following which the Charan priests perform Mangla ki Aarti and offer bhog in worship. Devotees also make offerings to the rats during this time. The temple closes by 10:00 PM.
There is no entry fee to enter the temple.
Best time to visit Karni Mata Temple
The best time to visit the temple is March-April, or September-October when the fairs and festivals are in full swing. One can, however, visit the temple anytime to offer bhog and seek the blessings of the goddess.
How to Reach Karni Mata Temple
The temple is located on NH 89, 30 kilometres to the south of Bikaner. It is easily accessible by regular buses from Bikaner and Jodhpur. One can also opt for taxis that can easily be hired from anywhere in Rajasthan.
Top Tourist Places in Bikaner
Karni Mata Temple
Kote Gate
Rampuriya Haveli
Lalgarh Palace
Station Road
National Reserch Centre On Camel
All Tourist Places in Bikaner
Tips
Beware of the rats around you and be sure to not step on them as they are considered to be religious.
Photos of Karni Mata Temple
Comments on Karni Mata Temple
Post Your Comment
