Indian Crocodile
In Religion and Mythology
Goddess Ganga
In ancient Hindu scriptures, makara refers to a mythical sea-creature that somewhat resembles a crocodile. It is often depicted as the vahana of Goddess Ganga, who represent the river Ganges, and Lord Varuna, God of wind. It is also the vahana of the river Goddess Narmada. The reptile is also sometimes associated with Kamadeva, the Hindu God of love
In Religion and Mythology
Gajendra Moksha
The crocodile also features in the famous ‘Gajendra-moksha’ legend, featured in Shrimad Bhagwatham. A crocodile once caught hold of the foot of Gajendra, the chief of the elephants. Unable to get his foot released from the tight grip of the crocodile, Gajendra prayed to Lord Vishnu. The Lord immediately rescued him from the jaws of the crocodile.
Scientific Name: Crocodylus palustris.
Common Name: Indian Crocodile, Muggermach (Hindi), Mudhalai (Tamil), Makara (Sanskrit)
Distribution: Throughout India
Conservation Status: Vulnerable (VU)