The Indian Crow

First Online: July 09, 2011
Page Last Updated: February 17, 2024

Pictures of the Crows of India

• The Crows and the Snake
• Crows with Carrion
• "Feed Me First!"
• Indian Crow in Hiding
• Nature's Janitors

Crow as Vehicle  of Shani

K.L. Kamat/Kamat's Potpourri

Two Headed Deity Shani Rides a Crow
Illustration from Telugu text Ragamalika

Role of Crow in Hindu Funeral

It is interesting that the crow, much despised bird, becomes  very important  on the occasion of Pindadana. Crow is supposed to be messenger of Yama, the Lord of Death. Hence, there is a prayer. Master of the ceremony recites, "O Crow! Thou art the messenger of Yama. Please accept this offering (food-pinda) and satisfy the hunger of the departed Spirit that has proceeded to the Abode of Yama."

On the tenth day when the pinda is offered to manes, all wait eagerly for the temporarily holy crow to pounce and partake food. Delay on the part of the crow suggests that the deceased had some unfulfilled wish which was compelling. Often the priest advises the performer to declare there and then to fulfill the last wish of the departed soul. All heave a sigh of relief, when the crow descends or condescends to peck at the food!.

See Also:

• Animal Motifs in Indian Art
• Animals and Ancient Indians -- Ancient Indians gave a great importance to nature, life and environment. They made deities out of animals and worshiped them. Kamat on animals of Indian mythology.