Karni Mata Temple

Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner Hinduism in India is as multifarious a religion as it is longstanding. Spirituality and symbolism happen to be its two fundamental elements. Also, a deeply involved part of these two aspects of Hinduism are animals. The assertive Hindu belief of inviolability of animals is actually one of the most remarkable aspects of the Indian culture. These creatures have been reckoned as channels for love and unity, symbols of the culture and impetuses of growth, by many ancient Indian literary texts. The life of an animal is held equal to that of a human, the only difference being that unlike the latter their senses have not fully manifested. Right from the classification of beings to the many animal incarnations of Gods, the crucial role of Nature’s beasts is furthermore stressed. The more one comes across the powerful references to animals in India, the more intrigued one gets. And it is only by visiting the numerous religious destinations within the nation, and peeking into their backgrounds that you begin to converge with the thresholds of this centuries’ old culture. Among the prominent seats of religion in India is the legendary Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner.

History & Legends
Speaking of the history of Karni Mata Temple of Bikaner, it includes different versions of stories. As per the most popular legend, Laxman, the stepson of Karni Mata, was once drowned in Kapil Sarovar when he was trying to drink water from it. When Karni Mata got to know about this incident, she implored Yama, the god of death, to revive her son. The god of death initially rejected her plea, but later on, gave in and agreed to allow the reincarnation of Laxman and all the sons of Karni Mata as rats.

Another famous folklore focuses on the presence of rats in Karni Mata Mandir. As per this legend, around 20, 000 soldiers once decided to desert a battle and returned to Deshnok to save their lives. When Karni Mata came to know about this act, which was a sin of deserting their responsibility, she got furious and wanted to punish them by the death penalty. However, later, her heart melted and she decided to spare their lives but turned the entire army into rats. On being spared of their lives, the army expressed their graduate and promised to serve Karni Mata forever.

Although there has always been a debate regarding the existence of rats at the Karni Mata Temple due to chances of spread of disease like the plague, nothing as such has happened to date. When a rat dies in the temple, it is replaced by a rat made from silver. Devotees who visit this temple offer milk and prasad to feed these rats.

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.