Latest news with #Vasuki
India.com
16-07-2025
- Science
- India.com
Vasuki Indicus: New King Of Giants Unearthed In Indias...., Dethrones Titanoboa; Check Its Massive Size, Weight, Fossil Pics
photoDetails english Vasuki Indicus Real Photos by IIT: Those who know about Lord Shiva, also knows about the revered snake Vasuki. Known as the snake that Lord Shiva wears around his neck, Vasuki was the son of the sage Kashyapa and the serpent queen Kadru, as per Hindu mythology or belief. As per Hindu scriptures, Vasuki was of unprecedented size and weight. In the modern era, for decades, the colossal Titanoboa held the undisputed title of the largest snake to have ever roamed Earth, with its impressive length of up to 42 feet. However, a groundbreaking discovery in Gujarat has potentially rewritten this chapter of paleontological history. Updated:Jul 16, 2025, 08:42 PM IST Vasuki Indicus Length, Weight 1 / 7 Fossils unearthed along the Kutch coast reveal an ancient serpent, now named Vasuki Indicus, estimated to have measured a staggering 49 feet long and weighed nearly 1,000 kilograms. This monumental find, the result of nearly two decades of dedicated research by scientists from IIT Roorkee, not only challenges our understanding of prehistoric megafauna but also draws a fascinating link to the mythical serpent Vasuki Naag from ancient Indian scriptures. Let's delve into the remarkable details of Vasuki Indicus: Vasuki Indicus: Scale, Size 2 / 7 The sheer scale of Vasuki Indicus redefines what was thought possible for ancient snakes. With length around 49 feet, it is a strong contender for the longest snake to have ever lived, potentially exceeding the previous record holder, Titanoboa. Based on the dimensions of its vertebrae, which measure between 38 to 62 millimeters in length and 62 to 111 millimeters in width, researchers infer that Vasuki Indicus possessed a broad, cylindrical body, similar to modern-day large pythons or anacondas. Vasuki Indicus Fossil 3 / 7 The story of Vasuki Indicus began with the discovery of its ancient remains, meticulously studied and identified over many years. The fossils were initially unearthed in 2005 at the Panandhro Lignite Mine in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. Researchers recovered 27 mostly well-preserved vertebrae. Due to their massive size, the bones were initially thought to belong to a large crocodile, highlighting the extraordinary scale of this ancient serpent. Vasuki Indicus Age 4 / 7 Vasuki Indicus is estimated to have lived during the Middle Eocene period, approximately 47 million years ago, a time characterized by a warm global climate conducive to the growth of large cold-blooded reptiles. Vasuki Indicus belongs to an extinct lineage of giant snakes, offering insights into their evolutionary history. Vasuki Indicus Real Reconstruction 5 / 7 Though a complete skeleton of Vasuki Indicus has not been found, scientific analysis of its vertebrae allowed for remarkable reconstructions and insights into its lifestyle. The size and distinctive features of the recovered vertebrae were instrumental in estimating the snake's overall length and weight. Vasuki Indicus Mythology 6 / 7 The naming of this newly discovered species highlights a fascinating connection between ancient Indian lore and modern scientific discovery. The name "Vasuki Indicus" is a direct reference to Vasuki Naag, the revered mythical serpent from Hindu scriptures, often depicted as a divine ornament around Lord Shiva's neck. Vasuki Indicus vs. Titanoboa 7 / 7 It's a battle of the beasts. Vasuki Indicus, with an estimated maximum length of 49 feet, potentially surpasses Titanoboa's maximum reported length of 42 feet. While Vasuki Indicus is estimated to be around 1,000 kg, Titanoboa has been estimated to weigh slightly more, up to 1.25 tonnes.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Nag Panchami 2025: When is Nag Panchami? Know Exact Date and All You Need to Know
One of the most well-known Hindu festivals is Nag Panchami. In India, people commemorate this day with great fervor. On this auspicious day, snakes are worshipped by people. According to Drik Panchang, on Panchami Tithi, the fifth day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Sawan, Nag Panchami is observed throughout India. It is going to be celebrated on July 29, 2025, this year. Nag Panchami 2025 : Date and Time Panchami Tithi Begins - July 28, 2025 - 11:24 PM Panchami Tithi Ends - July 30, 2025 - 12:46 AM Nag Panchami Puja Muhurat - July 29, 2025 - 05:41 AM to 08:23 AM In Gujrat, Nag Pancham festival will be celebrated on August 13, 2025. Nag Panchami 2025: Significance For Hindus, Nag Panchami is considered an auspicious festival. This day is dedicated to worship snakes. Because of their venomous nature, snakes are revered as deities and regarded as one of the most powerful animals. According to Hindu Hindu Scriptures, Nagas are considered as Gods of Patal Loka and this is a home to all the snakes. Additionally, it is believed that worshiping snakes on this day eliminates Kaal Sarpa Dosha and the fear of snakes. The Naga king Vasuki, who clings to Lord Shiva's neck. Many devotees worship the goddess Mansa, who is the sister of Vasuki and is regarded as the daughter of Lord Shiva. Nag Panchami 2025: Puja Rituals 1. Before beginning puja rites, devotees take a bath after waking up early. 2. Devotees use coal to create images of snakes on paper or walls. 3. They offer sweets, haldi, kumkum, and flowers. 4. In order to honor snakes, devotees present them with kheer and milk. 5. With the aid of a snake charmer, some people even give milk to actual snakes. 6. In addition to offering silver Nag Nagin Joda (a snake pair), one must perform Abhishekam to Shivlingam. Mantra 1. Om Sarpebhyo Namah..!! 2. Om Namah Shivaye..!! 3. Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam, Urvarukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritaat..!!
India.com
10-07-2025
- Science
- India.com
Gujarat's Vasuki Indicus or Colombia's Titanoboa, which is the largest snake on Earth? It weighs 1.25 tonnes, length is..., name is...
Since the formation of Earth, countless creatures have been born and have gone extinct. Snakes are incredible creatures , and there have been some studies about them in which it was proposed that there were once giant snakes weighing over 1 , 000 pounds on Earth . Two of the prehistoric snakes that usually come up in these debates are Vasuki indicus and Titanoboa. But have you ever wondered which is the largest snake to have ever lived on Earth? Well, it is… During the Paleocene epoch, around 58-60 million years ago, Titanoboa cerrejonensis , which lived in the swampy ecosystems of Colombia, is considered the largest prehistoric snake in history. According to the Times of India report, initially believed to be crocodile vertebrae, the fossilized vertebrae of a colossal snake, ultimately known as Titanoboa, were discovered in 2009 at the Cerrejón coal mines. Jonathan Bloch and Carlos Jaramillo later discovered the snake was Titanoboa measuring 15 metres (50 feet) long and weighing approximately 1.25 tonnes. Titanoboa , as wide as an oil drum, crushed its prey with a powerful bite that had a muscle force of approximately 400 psi . The discovery generated media attention and has led to a life- size model of Titanoboa now located in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. In 2005, paleontologists found 27 large vertebrae at the Panadhro Lignite Mine in Gujarat, India, which they thought were crocodile bones. After nearly nine years of detailed research, a group led by Sunil Bajpai determined that the fossils belonged to an undescribed giant snake species and named it Vasuki indicus after the mythological giant serpent in Hindu mythology. Dating to roughly 47 million years ago (Middle Eocene), Vasuki reached an estimated length of up to 15 m (49 feet) and weighed close to 1 tonne, reported TOI. Since the snake's gigantic size and Indian affiliation made 'Vasuki' (the celestial serpent connected to Lord Shiva) culturally significant, it was also an appropriate scientific homage.
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Vasuki Indicus vs Titanoboa: Who was the largest snake in fossil history
Earth, our dynamic and life-sustaining planet, is approximately 4.543 billion years old. Over these vast eons, it has undergone dramatic transformations—from fiery origins and shifting continents to the rise and extinction of countless species. Among the incredible creatures that once roamed our world were the largest snakes ever discovered, giants so immense they rival modern vehicles in size and power. Two prehistoric titans, Titanoboa and Vasuki Indicus, stand out as the ultimate apex predators of their time. But which of these colossal snakes truly holds the title as Earth's largest ever fossil? Titanoboa or Vasuki: Which fossil snake was Earth's largest ever discovered Titanoboa: Earth's Giant predator Source: Washington Post Titanoboa cerrejonensis is considered the largest snake in prehistoric history, dominating Colombia's swampy ecosystems about 58–60 million years ago during the Paleocene epoch. Discovered in 2009 in the Cerrejón coal mines, its fossilized vertebrae were initially mistaken for a crocodile's. Researchers led by Jonathan Bloch and Carlos Jaramillo confirmed it was a massive snake, stretching up to 15 meters (50 feet) and weighing 1.25 tonnes. With a body thicker than an oil drum, Titanoboa crushed its prey using 400 psi of muscle force. The discovery made headlines globally, and a life-size model now stands at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Vasuki Indicus: 47-million-year-old snake confirmed in 2024 study In 2005, paleontologists discovered 27 massive vertebrae at the Panadhro Lignite Mine in Gujarat, India—initially thought to be from a crocodile. After nearly nine years of analysis, scientists led by Sunil Bajpai confirmed the remains belonged to a new species of giant snake, named Vasuki Indicus, after the mythical serpent from Hindu lore. Dating back 47 million years to the Middle Eocene epoch, Vasuki could grow up to 15 meters (49 feet) long and weigh around 1 tonne. Its enormous size and Indian origin made the name 'Vasuki'—Lord Shiva's celestial serpent—a culturally meaningful and scientifically significant choice. Titanoboa vs Vasuki: Comparison Both Titanoboa and Vasuki Indicus represent the pinnacle of snake evolution—but how do they compare? Feature Titanoboa cerrejonensis Vasuki Indicus Discovered In Cerrejón coal mines, Colombia Panadhro Lignite Mine, Gujarat, India Lived During Paleocene Epoch (58–60 million years ago) Middle Eocene Epoch (47 million years ago) Length 12.8–15.2 meters (42–50 feet) 11–15.2 meters (36–49 feet) Weight 1.1–1.25 tonnes Approx. 1 tonne Family Boidae (like boas and anacondas) Madtsoiidae (extinct snake family) Habitat Tropical rainforests (semi-aquatic) Coastal swamps (terrestrial) Predation Style Apex predator; primarily fish-eating Ambush predator; likely ate crocodilians Vasuki Indicus vs Titanoboa : Which was the largest snake to ever live Discovery sites: Where the serpents were found Titanoboa cerrejonensis was discovered in the Cerrejón coal mines in La Guajira, Colombia. This site is one of the world's largest open-pit coal mines and a rich fossil bed from the Paleocene epoch. The tropical climate preserved ancient flora and fauna, offering a rare glimpse into a post-dinosaur ecosystem. Vasuki Indicus, on the other hand, was found in the Panadhro Lignite Mine in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. This lignite mine has yielded several important vertebrate fossils, and in 2005, paleontologists unearthed massive vertebrae there—initially mistaken for a crocodile but later confirmed to be from a new species of giant snake. Source: WIRED Geological era: When did they live Titanoboa lived during the Paleocene epoch, around 58 to 60 million years ago, a time right after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This era saw the gradual emergence of mammals and the resurgence of reptiles in a world that was still recovering from a global catastrophe. Vasuki Indicus lived during the Middle Eocene epoch, about 47 million years ago, a period marked by warm global temperatures, rising sea levels, and widespread tropical forests—an ideal environment for large reptiles to thrive. Size comparison Titanoboa measured approximately 12.8 to 15.2 meters (42 to 50 feet) in length and weighed between 1.1 to 1.25 tonnes (2,425 to 2,755 pounds). It remains the heaviest snake ever recorded, with vertebrae thicker than any modern-day serpent. Its body was so massive that it likely had to stay in or near water to support its weight. Vasuki Indicus is estimated to have been 11 to 15.2 meters (36 to 49 feet) long and weighed around 1 tonne (2,200 pounds). While slightly lighter than Titanoboa, it could match or even exceed Titanoboa in length, making it a serious contender for the title of longest snake in Earth's history. Source: Reuters Evolutionary roots Titanoboa belonged to the Boidae family, which includes modern boas and anacondas. This lineage is known for non-venomous, constricting snakes that kill prey by suffocation. Titanoboa is considered a distant cousin of the green anaconda, though vastly larger. Vasuki Indicus was part of the now-extinct Madtsoiidae family, a group of large, terrestrial snakes that once lived across Gondwana (ancient Southern Hemisphere continents like India, Africa, and South America). This family had a distinct evolutionary path, and Vasuki's discovery added valuable insight into its diversity and distribution. Habitat Titanoboa thrived in humid, tropical rainforests and was likely semi-aquatic, similar to modern anacondas. The fossil-rich Cerrejón region suggests it lived in swampy lowlands, using water for both camouflage and support. Vasuki Indicus is believed to have lived in coastal swamps or floodplains, possibly in a more terrestrial setting. The fossil site in Gujarat hints at a warm, marshy environment where this snake likely hunted along riverbanks and swampy terrain. Feeding and hunting strategy Titanoboa was an apex predator in its ecosystem, primarily feeding on large fish, including prehistoric relatives of modern lungfish and other aquatic vertebrates. Despite lacking venom, its crushing strength—estimated at 400 psi—was enough to subdue large prey. Vasuki Indicus likely hunted as an ambush predator, targeting terrestrial prey such as crocodilians or early mammals. Its build and evolutionary lineage suggest it relied on stealth and sudden bursts of power, like modern-day pythons or rock pythons. Vasuki Indicus or Titanoboa: Who was truly the largest While Vasuki Indicus may edge out Titanoboa in maximum estimated length, the latter is still considered more massive in terms of weight and girth. Titanoboa's vertebrae were thicker and more robust, suggesting it had a bulkier body structure, suited for overpowering large aquatic prey. That said, Vasuki Indicus stands as a close rival, and perhaps even the longest snake ever documented, challenging long-held beliefs and offering new insights into the evolution of reptiles in ancient India. Also Read | Camel tears might hold the secret to fighting 26 snake venoms; here's what researchers found
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Moved by viral video, Pawan Kalyan helps veteran actress Pakeezah
Vijayawada: Veteran actress Vasuki, popularly known by her screen name Pakeezah, received financial assistance of 2 lakh from deputy chief minister and chief , after reports emerged of her struggling with severe financial hardship. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The support came in response to viral videos showing the actress visiting the Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada, which revealed her current condition. Moved by her plight, netizens widely shared her story, sparking an online campaign urging both the govt and the public to step in and help. Pakeezah, once a celebrated figure in Telugu and Tamil cinema, acted in over 300 films during her career. She rose to prominence in the 1990s with memorable roles in blockbusters like Pedda Rayudu, Assembly Rowdy, Mama Garu, and others. Despite her past fame, she recently faced dire financial struggles, losing film opportunities and struggling to make ends meet. The 2 lakh assistance was handed over at the Jana Sena Central Office in Mangalagiri by Legislative Council govt whip Hariprasad and P Gannavaram MLA Giddi Satyanarayana, on behalf of Pawan Kalyan. An emotional Pakeezah expressed heartfelt gratitude. "If he were here, I would touch his feet in thanks. I informed his office only yesterday, and by today, I received help. I will forever remain indebted to his family," she said.
