Karni Mata Temple, The Temple of Rats. India

in photography •  7 years ago 

Karni Mata Temple also known as the Temple of Rats because of the approximately 25,000 black rats that live, and are revered in, the temple. These holy rats are called kabbas.

Legend has it that Laxman, Karni Mata's son drowned in a pond while he was attempting to drink from it. Karni Mata implored Yama, the god of death, to revive him. First refusing, Yama eventually relented, permitting Laxman and all of Karni mata's male children to be reincarnated as rats.

Eating food that has been nibbled on by the rats is considered to be a "high honor".

Out of all of the thousands of rats in the temple, there are a few white rats, which are considered to be especially holy. They are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her four sons. Sighting them is a special blessing and visitors put in extensive efforts to bring them forth, offering prasad, a sweet holy food.

🐀🐀🐀🐁🐀🐀🐀

Authors get paid when people like you upvote their post.
If you enjoyed what you read here, create your account today and start earning FREE STEEM!