MANI
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A Visit to Karni Mata
Last month, I had the opportunity to visit the famous Karni Mata Temple located in Deshnok near Bikaner, Rajasthan. This temple is one of the most unusual and fascinating religious places in India. It is dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
As soon as I reached the temple, I noticed its beautiful white marble structure and silver gates. The temple looked peaceful from outside, but the real surprise awaited me inside. Thousands of rats were freely moving around the temple premises. At first, I felt nervous and scared, but the locals and priests calmly explained that these rats, known as kabbas, are considered sacred and are worshipped by devotees.
Walking barefoot inside the temple was a unique experience. Devotees believe that these rats are reincarnated members of Karni Mata’s family. People carefully walked around them, offering food and milk. It is believed that if a rat runs over your feet, it is a sign of good luck. I also learned that seeing a rare white rat among the black ones is considered extremely auspicious.
Despite the large number of rats, the temple was surprisingly clean. The temple management takes great care to maintain hygiene. The atmosphere inside was filled with devotion, faith, and calmness. I felt a strange sense of peace and acceptance, overcoming my initial fear.
After offering prayers, we shared the prasad that had been eaten by the rats, as it is considered holy. This visit taught me a lot about faith, beliefs, and respect for all living beings.
In conclusion, my visit to Karni Mata Temple was a memorable and eye-opening experience. It is not just a religious place but also a symbol of India’s unique culture and deep-rooted traditions.