Kasaragod: The crocodile ‘Babiya’ of Anantapura Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple near Kumbale, popularly known as divine abode of lake has passed away leaving scores of locals and devotees of the temple mourning.
Located amid the water of the lake, Babiya, who lived in the lake, was popularly known as the “Crocodile of God.” It was customary to offer Naivedya (holy rice) after the pooja to Babiya, who has been staying in the temple tank for many years. A few years ago, Babiya had come out of the lake and was spotted near the temple too.
It has been believed that ‘Lord Anantapadmanabha’, who resides in the middle of the lake of this temple, would do the ‘guarding work’ of the crocodile, Babiya. The crocodile also lived in this lake, which is filled with fresh water all day of the year. God’s offering is the eternal food for it. Babiya used to live a free life moving from this lake to the big tank in the Temple, walking along the path of human beings.
Further, it was also because of the presence of a harmless crocodile in the constituency that Anantapura had gained international curiosity and popularity. There was a crocodile in the lake even before independence. It is said that the crocodile was shot dead by the British who had set up a military camp in the area. And then another baby crocodile appeared in the lake on its own. It was named Babiya, who had hitherto never harmed anyone. However, the crocodile had recently fallen ill due to age-related illness and was being treated.
In the meantime, it was found floating last night. Devotees from the surrounding areas have lifted the crocodile from the water and placed it in front of the temple for the last darshan. After the arrival of the tantris, its last rites will be performed.
