Revisiting The Fascinating Tale Of Bullet Baba, A Temple Where Royal Enfield Is Worshipped

In India, where temples and shrines are widespread, a unique place of worship has emerged along National Highway 62, connecting Jodhpur and Ahmedabad. Unlike traditional temples dedicated to gods and goddesses, this shrine stands out as it venerates a 350 cc Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle, turning it into a revered symbol known as the Om Banna shrine or Bullet Baba temple.

The fascinating origin tale of this temple was recently shared by author Aditya Kondawar on X, shedding light on the unique story that has captured the attention of both locals and travellers. Situated 20 kilometres before the town of Pali and 53 kilometres before Jodhpur, the shrine finds its home in the quaint Chotila village.

At the centre of the temple’s worship is a Royal Enfield Bullet 350 with the registration number RNJ 7773, the very bike involved in the tragic accident of Om Singh Rathore in 1988. Rathod, the son of a local village leader, met his fate in the accident, and the mysterious reappearance of the motorcycle at the accident spot the next day led to the establishment of the shrine.

According to local legend, despite the police taking the bike to the nearest station, it kept returning to the accident site. In response to this strange occurrence, the villagers decided to construct a shrine dedicated to Rathod, considering him the guardian spirit of NH 62. The shrine is believed to offer protection against accidents, and people, especially young men with new bikes and women seeking blessings for their husbands’ safety on the roads, regularly visit it.

The temple, resembling a traditional place of worship, stands out in its rituals. Instead of holy water, devotees bring whiskey bottles, emphasising the cultural significance of the shrine. A nearby tree serves as a focal point where believers tie red threads, symbolising their faith in Bullet Baba.

Kondawar’s account of the shrine has highlighted the cultural importance of such unique temples in Rajasthan, with many devoted to “Om Banna.” Social media responses also revealed personal contributions, such as one user mentioning the donation of two helmets when purchasing a new vehicle.