Since 1845, people from across Hyderabad and the country have gathered in the city each year to receive the ‘fish prasadam’. Now, this isn’t an offering distributed at a religious institution; instead, it is administered at the Exhibition Grounds in Nampally and is believed to be a traditional remedy for respiratory ailments. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
Fish Prasadam Hyderabad: History & Tradition
According to Siasat, the fish prasadam tradition in Hyderabad is a two-day event held every year on Mrigasira Karthi, which marks the onset of the monsoon season in the Hindu calendar. The ‘prasadam’ is a traditional remedy administered by Hyderabad’s Bathini family and has been practised for over 180 years. It is believed to provide relief from asthma and other respiratory ailments.
As part of the ritual, a live murrel fish is stuffed with a secret herbal paste prepared by the Bathini family. The fish, containing the herbal mixture, is then placed into the throats of people seeking the remedy. According to tradition, only members of the Bathini family are permitted to administer it.
For vegetarians, the herbal paste is given with jaggery instead of a fish. Recipients are advised not to drink water for 30 minutes after consuming the prasadam. They are also required to follow a prescribed diet and are encouraged to take the remedy for three consecutive years.
Century-Old Ritual That Sees Thousands Queue Up Each Year
As reported by The Hans India, the fish prasadam has long been the subject of debate regarding its medical efficacy. Despite the controversy, thousands of people travel to Hyderabad every year to receive it, with many claiming that it has helped alleviate their respiratory ailments.
According to local belief, the tradition began in 1845 when a wandering sage from the Himalayas sought shelter at the Bathini family’s home on a rainy Mrigasira Karthi night. Veeranna Goud, a toddy merchant known for helping those in need, welcomed the weary traveller, offering him food, dry clothes and a place to stay.
Before leaving the next morning, the sage is said to have shared a secret herbal remedy for respiratory ailments with Veeranna Goud. The formula has since been passed down through generations of the Bathini family, who continue to administer and distribute the fish prasadam as part of the centuries-old tradition.
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Let us know your thoughts on this long-standing tradition in Hyderabad in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Facebook/TelanganaTamilSangam & Wikimedia Commons
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FAQs
What is the fish prasadam?
Fish prasadam is a traditional remedy administered by Hyderabad's Bathini family. It involves a live murrel fish filled with a secret herbal paste that is believed to help people suffering from asthma and other respiratory ailments.
When is the fish prasadam distributed?
The remedy is distributed every year on Mrigasira Karthi, which marks the onset of the monsoon season according to the Hindu calendar.
Where is the fish prasadam administered?
It is typically administered at the Exhibition Grounds in Nampally, Hyderabad, where thousands of people gather each year to receive it.
What is the origin of the tradition?
According to local belief, the tradition began in 1845 when a Himalayan sage shared a secret herbal remedy with Veeranna Goud, an ancestor of the Bathini family.