Baby dunked in boiling water as part of ritual; survives

In a mysterious religious ritual by a couple at Jumalapur village in Bijapur district, a three-month-old infant was dunked into a vessel full of boiling water and lifted out, as the horrifying act drew shocked gasps from the public and media persons gathered.

The baby appeared fine, and she seemed absolutely normal, with not even a small cry coming from her.

The parents, looking unafraid and determined, in fact, were happy that they were carrying out the ritual, held during the festival of Balabhim near Talikot town on Friday.

The parents, Prabhavati and Sanganagouda of Navadagi village near Talikot town, married a few years ago, but had no children. Fed up, the disappointed couple prayed that their wish be fulfilled.

Hanumantray Hugar, priest of Balabhim (Anjaneya) temple of Jumalapur village had told them, presumably speaking on behalf of the Almighty: "I will give two issues to you, out of which one will be taken by self. Another should be dipped in boiling water as a religious ritual".

In due course, the first baby was born, but died early. The second one was born within a year, and the ritual was performed. This superstition is a challenge to science and everything in the real world, as the baby is fine and normal, even after the excruciatingly painful experience.