All preparations have been made for the distribution of ‘Fish Prasadam’ at Nampally Exhibition grounds on June 8 and 9. There are 32 counters for distribution and heavy security is in place.
The Bathini Goud family administers this ‘wonder drug’ during the first week of June, which marks the beginning of the monsoon in the Hindu calendar. The prasadam is given out for free, with over 500 kilos made each year.
Asthma patients from various places come in June every year to receive this prasadam in hopes of relief from their respiratory issues. The Bathini family has been distributing this medicine for free for 178 years, following a formula given by a saint in 1845.
The prasadam is a yellow herbal paste placed in the mouth of a live ‘murrel’ fish, which is then swallowed by the patient. Adequate amounts are prepared to ensure all visitors receive it.
People from different regions and faiths come to receive the fish prasadam, which is only distributed once a year on the day of Mrigasira Karti. Asthmatics believe taking this medicine for three consecutive years can provide relief.
Arrangements have been made for crowd control, uninterrupted power supply, drinking water, sanitation, health camps, and ambulances at the venue. Separate counters are available for different groups of people.
