Locals in Gujarat, India, notably at Dakor’s Ranchhodraiji Temple, participate in a traditional ritual during the Annakoot festival where over 3,000 k...

Locals in Gujarat, India, notably at Dakor’s Ranchhodraiji Temple, participate in a traditional ritual during the Annakoot festival where over 3,000 kg of prasad (offered food) is “looted” by devotees. This event, which appears chaotic, is a centuries-old, well-managed religious practice where villagers from around 80 nearby villages joyfully collect prasad as a symbolic act of gratitude believed to bring health, prosperity, and blessings for the year ahead. Police oversee the event to ensure safety during the ritual, which has been observed for over 250 years and is part of celebrating the Gujarati New Year and divine abundance after the harvest season. Despite the appearance of looting, this is a cultural and religious tradition rather than criminal activity