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After getting married to the female crocodile, he kissed it and even performed their first dance.
This ritual in Mexico began about 230 years ago. (Photo Credit: X)
You may have heard about the unusual ritual in parts of India where Mangliks symbolically marry a tree to ward off marital discord. This tradition is rooted in astrological beliefs. Believe it or not, a south-western Mexican town in Oaxaca, San Pedro Huamelula, has a somewhat similar ritual that began about 230 years ago.
This custom, observed by indigenous communities, involves symbolically marrying a female crocodile to seek blessings for rain, good harvest and a peaceful coexistence with nature. Recently, the town’s mayor, Daniel Gutierrez, took part in the unconventional ceremony, grabbing attention from the Internet.
A video of the symbolic wedding was shared by a media portal on X. The clip shows the groom, decked up in a white nuptial outfit with a crocodile motif emblazoned on his blazer. Interestingly, the caiman is also dressed like a bride, wearing a white gown. The guests are seen helping the mayor carry the reptile. Soon, he lifts the female crocodile in his arms and plants a kiss on its snout. The mayor partakes in a joyful dance with the caiman. Others also joined the session, having a gala time. The crocodile’s mouth is secured with a nozzle for safety.
The side note read, “The Mayor of a Mexican Town Married a Caiman — for Prosperity and Fish. Daniel Gutierrez held a wedding ceremony with a member of the crocodile family in the town of San Pedro Huamelula. This ritual has been celebrated for over 230 years and symbolises the union of two Indigenous groups. It is believed that only such a union can bring abundant crops to the land and plenty of fish to the sea. During the ceremony, the caiman is treated with honour and traditionally dressed in a wedding gown.”
The internet had lots to say about the video.
“A 230-year-old ritual? Sounds like the perfect time to rethink some traditions. But hey, if it brings fish and prosperity, who am I to judge?” wrote one person.
A 230-year-old ritual? Sounds like the perfect time to rethink some traditions. But hey, if it brings fish and prosperity, who am I to judge?
– Amir
Another commented, “Unbelievable. A man marries a caiman, and somehow it makes more sense than half the political alliances in 2024. At least the reptile didn’t lie.”
Unbelievable.
A man marries a caiman… and somehow it makes more sense than half the political alliances in 2024.At least the reptile didn’t lie.
– Anatolijukraine (@anatoliukraine) July 1, 2025
“One of ten thousand rituals of Mexicans,” joked another.
One of ten thousand rituals of Mexicans
Two years ago, Mayor Victor Hugo Sosa also organised a similar wedding.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
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Delhi, India, India
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