A unique roadside shrine dedicated to a motorcycle

India is full of unusual stories, but few are as intriguing as the tale of the Bullet Baba Temple. I first heard about it while traveling from Jodhpur to Udaipur, when our driver asked if he could stop to “offer beer to Bullet Baba.”

That unexpected request sparked my curiosity—and what followed was one of the most fascinating local legends I’ve come across.

The Story Behind Bullet Baba Temple

The temple is dedicated to Om Singh Rathore, popularly known as Om Banna. He was known for his deep love for his Royal Enfield Bullet 350, which he rode everywhere.

In 1998, during a late-night ride near the village of Chotila, Om Singh lost control of his bike and crashed into a tree. Both he and the motorcycle fell into a ditch, and he died instantly.

The police recovered the bike and took it to the station. But the next morning, the motorcycle was missing.

After a search, it was found back at the accident spot.

Thinking it was a prank, the police:

• Brought the bike back again
• Emptied the fuel tank
• Locked and chained it

Yet, the next day, the bike disappeared again—only to be found at the same accident site.

This reportedly happened multiple times.

Eventually, the police handed the bike over to Om Singh’s family, who sold it to a buyer in Gujarat. But within days, the motorcycle mysteriously reappeared at the original accident location.

From Legend to Temple

As word spread, locals began to believe that Om Banna’s spirit was still attached to his beloved motorcycle.

According to belief: if the bike is moved, the spirit brings it back.

After several failed attempts to relocate it, villagers decided to build a temple at the site. Today, it is known as:

• Bullet Baba Temple
• Om Banna Temple

What Makes Bullet Baba Temple Unique?

Unlike traditional temples, the main deity here is not a statue—but the motorcycle itself.

• The original Royal Enfield Bullet 350 is placed on a raised platform
• It is enclosed within a glass case
• A bust of Om Singh Rathore is installed nearby
• The accident site has been converted into a shrine

Drivers and travelers passing through this highway often stop here to seek blessings for a safe journey.

Rituals and Offerings

One of the most unusual aspects of the temple is its offerings.

Devotees offer:

• Beer 🍺
• Whiskey 🥃
• Other alcoholic beverages

These are presented to the deity with the belief that: offering alcohol to Bullet Baba ensures a safe and accident-free journey.

You’ll also find a priest conducting rituals, just like in any other temple.

Local Beliefs and Mysteries

The mystery surrounding Bullet Baba doesn’t end with the origin story. Locals claim:

• The motorcycle has been heard starting on its own
• Sounds resembling a Bullet engine are heard on certain nights
• Especially during full moon nights

While there is no scientific explanation, these stories continue to attract curious travelers and believers alike.

Location and How to Reach

Bullet Baba Temple is located on the Jodhpur–Pali highway, near Chotila village in Rajasthan.

• Distance from Jodhpur: ~50 km
• Easily accessible by road
• A popular stop for bikers and highway travelers

Why You Should Visit Bullet Baba Temple

• A truly unique cultural experience
• A blend of folklore, belief, and mystery
• A must-stop on a Rajasthan road trip
• Popular among bikers, especially Royal Enfield riders

Final Thoughts

Whether you believe in the legend or not, Bullet Baba Temple is one of those places that stays with you – not because of its grandeur, but because of its story.

It’s a reminder of how local beliefs and real-life events can come together to create something extraordinary.