The Unique Vegetarian Crocodile of Kerala's Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Introduction to the Vegetarian Crocodile

There are many astonishing truths about life that might surprise you. In India, numerous beliefs exist that are known only to the locals.

A Surprising Belief

Today, we will discuss a belief that may seem unbelievable. Typically, animals are carnivorous, and even a large and dangerous creature like a crocodile is expected to eat meat. However, there exists a unique crocodile on Earth that is vegetarian, feeding solely on offerings.

The Crocodile of Padmanabhaswamy Temple

This vegetarian crocodile, known as Babiya, resides in a pond located within the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is situated amidst a serene lake. Babiya is said to guard the temple.

Mystical Beliefs Surrounding Babiya

There is a belief associated with this temple that when a crocodile dies in the lake, another mysteriously appears. After offerings are made at the temple, they are fed to Babiya, but only the priests are permitted to do so. Remarkably, Babiya does not harm other creatures in the lake.

The Mystery of Babiya

Babiya has been living in the Ananthapur temple's lake for approximately 60 years. According to locals, the crocodile was shot by the British in 1945, yet it reappeared the very next day. Whether it is the same crocodile or a different one remains uncertain, but it is indeed a remarkable vegetarian crocodile.

About Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the wealthiest temples in India, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu resides here in a self-manifested form. Thousands of devotees visit to witness the grand statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture. Legends suggest that even Indra and Chandra worshipped Lord Padmanabhaswamy here. The temple houses 12,008 Shaligrams and resonates with the sacred sounds of bells, conch shells, and mantras, captivating the devotees. It is also recognized as the 108th pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.

Historical Significance

Some historians believe that this temple is over 5,000 years old. An ancient text written on palm leaves, the Ananthasyana Mahatmya, describes that the temple was established on the 950th day of the Kali Yuga by the Tulu Brahmin, Divakar Muni. The temple has undergone several renovations, the last being in 1733, commissioned by Maharaja Marthanda Varma of Travancore. The golden pillars and intricately carved corridors enhance the temple's grandeur.