Babiya

Babiya was a crocodile believed to have lived in the Ananthapura Lake Temple in Kasaragod district, Kerala, India. The crocodile was considered sacred and was a vegetarian, reportedly subsisting solely on temple offerings (prasadam) of rice and jaggery. Babiya's presence at the temple was attributed to divine protection, and it was considered a guardian of the temple and its surrounding area.

Local legend and temple authorities stated that Babiya was the successor to a line of temple crocodiles, with each disappearing upon the arrival of the next. The crocodile was generally docile and allowed priests and devotees to approach it. Babiya's death in October 2022 garnered significant media attention, highlighting the unique bond between the temple and its resident crocodile, as well as the religious beliefs surrounding the animal. The cause of death was reportedly due to age-related ailments.