Kerala's Mystical Ananthapura Lake Temple: A Veg Crocodile's Enigmatic Legacy
Image Credit: NDTV
In the serene heart of Kasargod rests the Ananthapura Lake Temple, a spiritual haven that transcends the ordinary, boasting a unique union of spirituality and natural wonder. Serving as the original abode of Ananthapadmanabha Swami of Thiruvananthapuram, this temple stands unparalleled as Kerala's sole lake temple.
Adding an enigmatic aura to its tranquility is the mystical tale of Babia, a crocodile whose lineage spans over a century and a half within the temple's lake. Babia, a revered resident, held an extraordinary legacy, was vegetarian and benign, peacefully coexisting with the temple's visitors while solely subsisting on the sacred prasadam offered within the temple's sanctum.
The Curious Phenomenon
The recent passing of the temple's beloved Babia marked the end of an era on October 9, 2022. However, in a mystifying turn of events, a new crocodile emerged, marking the fourth consecutive appearance of these mysterious creatures in the lake.
Video Source: HISTORY TV18
"The emergence of a new crocodile, witnessed by devotees within a cave adjacent to the lake on November 8, has left the temple in awe," a temple official confirmed. Upon verification by temple authorities, it was revealed that this newcomer is a young crocodile, sparking deliberations among the temple's custodians, guided by the wisdom of the head priest.
Babia, the revered predecessor, was an iconic figure revered by hundreds who paid their respects during her final moments. Said to have surpassed 70 years of age, Babia's vegetarian diet and reliance solely on the temple's offerings further embellished her legendary status among locals and visitors alike.
Unexplained Mystique
The temple's website echoes the mystique surrounding this phenomenon, highlighting the absence of any neighboring rivers or ponds housing crocodiles, emphasizing the peculiar cycle of a crocodile's appearance upon the demise of its predecessor.
Situated amidst the Mahavishnu temple in Ananthapura near Kumbla, Kasaragod, this temple remains steeped in tradition, preserving the sanctity of its unique resident crocodile, reminiscent of the famed Gajendra Moksha stories in the Bhagavatha Puranam.
The temple's enigmatic relationship with these reptilian residents continues to fascinate, leaving an indelible mark on Kerala's cultural tapestry—a testament to the enduring mysteries woven within its hallowed grounds.
