India: New crocodile appears in Kerala temple lake a year after demise of revered Babiya
New crocodile seen at the Ananthapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple lake
Devotees at the Ananthapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple in Kerala were surprisedwhen a new crocodile was spotted in the temple's lake, a year after the demise of the revered crocodile 'Babiya,' considered a 'reincarnated deity,' reported The Hindu.
Babiya's legacy
Babiya, the crocodile that had garnered popularity for its "divine connections," passed away on October 9, 2022, leaving a void in the hearts of devotees from Kerala and Karnataka.
Pilgrims used to visit the temple to witness daily rituals, as Babiya was known to consume the offerings for the deity.
Babiya's demise marked the end of an era, leading to contemplation among devotees about the spiritual significance of the crocodile's presence.
Uday Kumar Gatti, the temple's chairman, confirmed the presence of the new crocodile to the Hindu after a family reported its sighting on November 8, 2023.
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Initially facing criticism on social media, the family's claims were later verified upon revisiting the temple on November 11, 2023.
This marks the third crocodile to make an appearance at the temple lake, with the new visitor appearing smaller in size than its predecessor.
From 1945 to present
In 1945, folklore tells of a British soldier shooting a crocodile at the temple lake. Shortly thereafter, Babiya emerged, gaining spiritual significance.
To validate the recent sighting, the temple committee sent photos to a Chennai-based crocodile expert, confirming the new crocodile's species' similarity to Babiya.
While the temple authorities have not yet started to feed the new crocodile, various departments, including the Forest department, have been informed about the reptile's sighting.
A committee meeting is scheduled to discuss the implications of the crocodile's presence in the temple waters, rekindling the spiritual connection many felt with the late Babiya.
The unexpected reappearance has brought about a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder among both the temple committee members and devoted pilgrims.
(With inputs from agencies)
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