An endangered sea turtle is being called an incarnation of God by Hindu villagers in eastern India.

People in droves are now making a pilgrimage to a temple in Kendrapara where the Indian soft shell turtle sits in a water container.

Police have had difficulty controlling the swelling the crowds who are coming to view the turtle for good luck.

The turtle has unique marks on its carapace which apparently look like the Orissa state’s current deity.

According to Hindu mythology, sea turtles are thought to be an incarnation of God.

Wildlife authorities have registered a case for violation of the Wildlife Protection Act against a temple priest and some residents of the village for confining the rare turtle. Much to the shagrin of locals, they hope to deliver the turtle to a zoo.