On the onset of the Machli Prasad distribution, a similar event took place in Karnataka, just about 390kms away from Hyderabad.
The machli prasadam distribution has seen over 175 years in the name of a blessed cure for asthma and a passed-down tradition.
It is said, that Mr Veeranna Goud distributed Toddy and white bread to labourers who had been working hard, making them quench their thirst and also satisfying their hearts.
Picture Courtesy : DC
In 1845, a holy man met Mr. Veeranna, impressed on seeing his noble nature, and gave him a secret formula made of miraculous herbs. The well and administration area with Bathini Mrugasira Fish were blessed, and Mr Veeranna Goud was entrusted with the task of distributing an herbal food supplement for asthma patients free of charge. The secret formula was passed down through generations, reaching Shanker Goud, whose tenure greatly increased its popularity. Shanker Goud's five sons continued the practice, as the herbal supplement has been proven effective in curing asthma over four years.
The herbal paste is first stuffed in the fish and then administered live in the mouth of
Each patient. Claims are,the fish is slippery, so there is no problem in swallowing it. This live fish travels, wagging its tail and fins, through the throat and negotiates the phlegm congestion.
Despite scientific scepticism, a similar event has been reported in Karnataka.
A generally silent town in Koppal District saw a flood of people on the onset of a wonder pill prepared by Ashok Rao Kulkarni to cure asthma as well. Interestingly, the pill has to be administered during a specific auspicious time when the moon transitions from 'Mrugashira Nakshatra' to 'Ardra Nakshatra'
The Kulkarnis have also completed a century practising this tradition where Vyasa Rao Kulkarni, Mr Ashok's father practised earlier and after him, his son took over.
Picture Courtesy : DC
To add to the thrill around this mystery wonder pill, the town saw a grand zeal from villagers who set up stalls selling food and more experiencing a rush from cars and two-wheelers.
While there are stark similarities between the machli prasad and this wonder pill,
The latter has no mention of the use of a fish posing questions like, how necessary is the use of the live fish and will the audience dread swallowing the fish on various grounds root towards the pill?
Picture Courtesy : DC
In 2023, approximately 500kgs of the murrel fish was reported to be consumed for the prasad distribution.
Will the tradition thrive how it has so far or will it adapt to similar techniques used by others to adapt to cater to ever-changing audiences and lifestyles?
