Markings resemble 'eyes of a Hindu deity' (From Asian Image)

Markings resemble 'eyes of a Hindu deity'

2:00pm Monday 9th November 2009

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Hundreds of Indian villagers have been worshipping a rare turtle because markings on its shell resemble the eyes of a Hindu deity.

A resident of Khadipala village, Ramesh Patra, in the south eastern state of Orissa found the turtle in the nearby river late last week and brought it to the village. A temple in the village has become the home of the animal ever since.

Hundreds have been queuing to get a glimpse of the turtle believing that it will bring them good luck.

”The villagers are worshipping the turtle because it has marks on its shell which look similar to the eyes of lord Jagannath - the state’s presiding deity,” Mr Patra said.

However, a forest official said the turtle will be moved to the local zoo soon as it belongs to the most critically endangered species of fresh water turtles in the country, the Indian soft shell turtle.

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