Bikaner may be known for its camel safaris and impressive fort in the state of Rajasthan, but it is its unique temple in the town of Deshnok that attracted us to the area. The Karni Mata Rat Temple just may be the most unique and freaky attraction we’ve ever been to.
The Karni Mata Temple just may be one of India’s strangest attractions.
It houses thousands of rats, yes rats and pilgrims make regular trips to Deshnok to worship these long tailed rodents.
The Goddess Karna Mata was a part of the Charin clan in her lifetime.
She lived to be 150 years old and remained young and beautiful. After
her death, she became a rat. The followers of the Charin believe that
once they die, they too will be reincarnated as a rat and subsequently,
when a rat dies, it will be reincarnated as a human again.
These holy rodents are revered by their followers as the Charin People believe that the rats are their ancestors.
Apparently even during the worst of the plague, the town of Deshnok was not affected.
Worshippers make pilgrimages to the Karni Mata Temple not only to worship the rats, but to also heal their ailments.
An interesting fact that everyone told us was that these rats never leave the temple even though they are free to do so. I say, why leave when you are given a steady stream of tasty milk and treats.
The White Rat
It is considered lucky to spot a white rat and we managed to see one scamper around the grounds. I understand why it is so difficult to spot one though, the minute it comes out of hiding, hoards of tourists and pilgrims chase after it to catch a glimpse. It isn’t long before it runs back into a hole in the wall.
We pondered the thought that this poor rat probably says to its buddies…”Why don’t I ever get a chance to eat in peace like the rest of you? Every time I come out for a bite, I am chased by these silly humans.”
It is also considered auspicious to have rats scamper over your toes. Well Dave and I must have some good fortune in our cards because they scampered over to us more times than I would like to admit.
Maybe it was our stinky feet from not showering for days that attracted the rats so often. Or maybe we are just the chosen ones.
Did I tell you that you have to enter the temple barefoot?
No comments:
Post a Comment