PM Modi visits Karni Mata temple in Bikaner: Know why devotees are given leftover ‘prasad’ of rats

New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Rajasthan’s Bikaner district on Thursday to inaugurate the redeveloped Deshnoke railway station and lay the foundation for multiple development projects worth over Rs 26,000 crore. He also visited the renowned Karni Mata temple in Deshnoke and addressed a public gathering in Palana, according to an official statement.

Alongside, PM Modi virtually inaugurated 103 redeveloped ‘Amrit Stations’ across 86 districts in 18 states and Union territories, built at a cost of Rs 1,100 crore.

Unique Heritage of Karni Mata Temple and Its Sacred Rats

The newly revamped Deshnoke railway station, inspired by the temple’s architecture, aims to serve the large number of pilgrims visiting the temple with better passenger facilities.

But what makes the Karni Mata temple so unique? It is famously known as the ‘Temple of Rats’—home to thousands of rats called ‘Kaba,’ considered sacred by devotees.

These rats freely roam the temple, feeding on the leftover ‘prasad’ (offering) brought by worshippers. According to belief, these rats are incarnations of Karni Mata and by worshipping them, devotees’ wishes are fulfilled.

Mythological Significance of the Rats

Legend has it that Karni Mata’s brother died, and she prayed to Lord Shiva to bring him back to life. Lord Shiva granted her wish but instructed that her brother be resurrected in the form of a rat. Ever since, the rats in the temple are considered members of Karni Mata’s family.

About Karni Mata

Karni Mata was a revered and powerful yogini and tantrik from the 15th century, worshipped as a goddess in Hinduism. She is believed to have performed miracles, including ending plagues and famine in the region.

The temple is not only a religious site but also an architectural marvel attracting visitors and pilgrims alike.

Devotion and Management

People from nearby and distant places come to seek blessings at the temple. It is widely believed that those destined to meet Karni Mata are called by her. The temple’s administration is managed by Karni Mata’s descendants, known as Charans.