Located in Deshnoke, approximately 30 kilometers south of Bikaner, Rajasthan, this Mata Temple is a renowned Hindu shrine dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is famous for its resident population of over 25,000 rats, known as ‘kabbas’, which are revered as sacred and are believed to be the reincarnated followers of Karni Mata.
🏛️ History and Architecture of Karni Mata Temple
The original temple was established around 1530 after Karni Mata’s passing. The current structure, constructed in the early 20th century, was commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. Built in the Rajput architectural style, the temple features a stunning marble façade adorned with intricate carvings and silver doors. The inner sanctum houses a marble idol of Karni Mata, crafted by artisan Banna Khati from Jaisalmer
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🐀 The Sacred Rats
The temple’s most distinctive feature is its population of rats, which are treated with the utmost reverence. Devotees offer them sweets, milk, and other delicacies. It is considered highly auspicious to spot a white rat among the black ones, as they are believed to be the most sacred
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🕓 Visiting Hours
The temple is open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The day begins with the Mangla Aarti at 4:00 AM, followed by the offering of bhog (sacred food) to the deity. Devotees can enter the temple to offer prayers and observe the rats throughout the day..
🎉 Festivals and Rituals at Karni Mata Temple
Two major fairs are held annually at the temple during the Navratri festivals:
Chaitra Navratri Fair : Held in March–April.
Ashvin Navratri Fair : Held in September–October.
During these times, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple, participating in rituals and offering prayers. The Oran Parikrama, a 42 km sacred circuit around Deshnoke, is also observed during these festivals
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🌿 Cultural and Ecological Significance
The Karni Mata Oran, a sacred grove established by Karni Mata, is a protected area where no harm to flora or fauna is permitted. Recently, there have been protests against sand mining activities within this sacred zone, highlighting its cultural and ecological importance.
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