Speaking of locations to visit in Rajasthan, the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, Bikaner, is a fascinating temple that will catch your interest and tickle your curiosity. This temple is devoted to Goddess Karni Mata, a manifestation of Maa Durga, as suggested by its name. However, this temple is better known as the "temple of rats" than it is for the Goddess. Yes, you read correctly. This is due to the approximately 20,000 black rats that stay here permanently and are worshipped by pilgrims that throng the temple throughout the year.
Karni Mata Festival Dates & Location 2023
The temple is well-known for the Karni Mata Festival, also known as the Karni Mata Fair, which is held there twice a year during the Navratri season, from April to May and from October to November. The festival in the months of April and May is more spectacular and colourful. Once during Ashwin Shukla Ekam to Ashwin Shukla Dashmi and once during Chaitra Shukla Ekam to Chaitra Shukla Dashmi each year. The celebration fluctuates according to the traditional Hindu calendar, hence there are no set dates. In the nearby town of Deshnok, there is a festival.
The Background & Meaning Of The Karni Mata Festival
Significant from a religious perspective is the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Bikaner. This temple, often known as the "temple of rats," is home to 20,000 rats who are venerated and worshipped by the followers. These rodents are also called "kabbas." The majority of the rats are black, but there are a few white ones. The sighting of white rats is highly lucky. People are said to be able to expect to make their dreams come true if they have the opportunity to encounter white rats. The Karni Mata Festival is observed with a lot of fanfare, adoration, and respect for Karni Mata. When the celebration is conducted at the temple during Navratri, people travel from all over to visit. They honour the god by doing so.