Kerala's Unique Vegetarian Crocodile Passes Away at 70

The beloved vegetarian crocodile Babia, who lived at the Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple in Kerala for nearly 70 years, has passed away. Known for its unique diet of rice and jaggery, Babia was a gentle guardian of the temple, drawing visitors and devotees alike. Following its death, a heartfelt farewell was organized by the temple priests, who honored Babia's life and legacy. Many came to pay their respects, including local politicians, highlighting the deep connection the community had with this extraordinary creature. Babia's story is not just one of a crocodile but a symbol of devotion and harmony between nature and spirituality.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 26, 2026, 21:34 IST

A Remarkable Life of a Vegetarian Crocodile

Crocodiles are often regarded as some of the most dangerous creatures on the planet, typically known for their carnivorous diets. However, a unique vegetarian crocodile named Babia from Kerala has captured hearts with its unusual diet of rice and jaggery. Sadly, Babia passed away recently at the Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple in Kasaragod, where it had been a guardian for nearly 70 years.

Temple Priests Mourn the Loss

The temple priests expressed their sorrow over Babia's demise. This crocodile was known to patrol the temple grounds while residing in the nearby Ananthapura Lake. Following its passing, the priests conducted a final journey in accordance with Hindu customs, laying Babia to rest near the temple.

Diet and Final Days

Only Consumed Offerings
According to the temple priests, Babia exclusively consumed offerings of rice and jaggery presented at the temple. It had been missing since Saturday and was found floating in the river on Sunday at 11:30 AM. After notifying the animal husbandry department and local authorities, it was confirmed that Babia had passed away. Many politicians and devotees gathered to pay their respects.

During the final viewing, Babia's body was moved from the lake to an open area for the public to pay their last respects. Central Minister Shobha Karandlaje attended the ceremony, offering condolences and stating, 'The crocodile had been a part of the temple for 70 years. May God grant it liberation.' BJP state president K. Surendra also expressed heartfelt tributes, noting that countless devotees had come to see Babia.

A Gentle Guardian

Priests Share Memories
The priests shared that Babia was entirely herbivorous, never preying on fish or other aquatic creatures. It would emerge from its cave twice daily to greet visitors before returning inside. Many people visited the temple not only for worship but also to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary crocodile.

Locals claim that Babia never harmed anyone. Legend has it that many years ago, a sage was meditating at the temple when Lord Krishna, in the form of a child, began to disturb him. In a moment of anger, the sage pushed Krishna into the pond, only to realize his mistake later when he could not find the child.

The Legend of Babia

After this incident, a cave appeared nearby, believed to be where the deity vanished. In the following days, a crocodile began to frequent the area. The priests affirm that Babia was the third crocodile to inhabit the lake, but only one was ever visible.