Copyright indiatoday

Ever seen a robbery take place under police supervision? In Gujarat's Kheda district, one such 'loot' happens every year, and it's not as a crime, but a sacred celebration. At the famous Ranchhodraiji temple in Dakor town, devotees 'loot' the Annakut or Mahaprasad made for Lord Ranchhodraiji, a ritual that has continued for more than two centuries. This year, priests offered a Mahaprasad weighing about 3,000 kilograms consisting of boondi, rice, fruits, sweets, and ghee-based dishes. The highlight came at exactly 2.20 pm, when the temple doors were opened and people from 80 nearby villages rushed inside shouting "Jai Ranchhod". Within just ten minutes, the entire Annakut was gone. For devotees, taking home even a handful of this sacred food is believed to bring good health and prosperity throughout the year.