Deadly Scorpions Presented as Devotional Offerings at Ancient Temple Tradition
In a captivating temple tradition that has intrigued many, worshippers gather each year on the third Monday of the month of Shravan to present deadly scorpions as offerings to the ruling deity. This long-standing custom, upheld by followers of Kondalaraayudu (another name for Lord Venkateswara Swamy), takes place at the Kondalaraayudu Temple atop Kondrayudi Konda in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.
The pilgrimage to the Kondalaraayudu Temple is a cherished event, drawing devotees from the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh itself. As devotees journey to the hilltop, they make an intriguing discovery of numerous scorpions hidden among the stones along the path. However, undeterred by the potentially fatal bites of these toxic creatures, the followers capture them without any weapons and present them to their god as an act of devotion.
JUST IN: Devotees in Andhra Pradesh, India offer deadly scorpions as devotional offerings at ancient temple tradition. A unique act of faith and devotion. pic.twitter.com/fYNKBYrzGF
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The temple, with its rich historical roots, has become a center of faith and spiritual energy. The worshippers firmly believe in the divine protection bestowed upon them on this auspicious day. There have been no recorded instances of any unfavorable incidents occurring during the scorpion presentation ritual.
According to Yeddula Maheshwar Reddy, the temple’s chairman, devotees recite Govinda nama (another name for Lord Balaji) three times while presenting scorpions to Lord Kondalaraayudu in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. It is believed that this act, along with the prayers of the devotees, will lead to the fulfillment of their wishes.
Beyond the unique tradition of scorpion offerings, temples in India witness a diverse range of devotional rituals. While some devotees present goats or roosters to the presiding deities, others even offer alcohol during the Abhishekam ritual. These practices reflect the deeply rooted faith and cultural diversity found among worshippers. They provide a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of religious devotion across the country.
In an unrelated incident, a heartwarming video emerged online, shedding light on the Temple of Tea Service located in Amritsar, Punjab. This small teashop, run by an 80-year-old Sikh man for four decades, stands apart from regular tea stalls. Here, customers have the freedom to pay as they wish, reflecting the owner’s selfless service and dedication to his community. Anand Mahindra, the well-known industrialist, expressed his admiration for the establishment and promised to visit it during his next trip to Amritsar.
As we witness these remarkable traditions and acts of kindness, it serves as a reminder of the diverse and profound ways in which people express their devotion and contribute to their communities. These stories captivate our hearts and illuminate the beauty of human spirit and faith around the world.
