The police had to rush to Kharodi village near Malwani on Friday morning to ensure there was no stampede-like situation after a large crowd gathered around a crucifix in the area with the belief that water had started seeping from its feet `miraculously'. The? Jesus statue at Kharodi village comes under St Anthony's Parish and is located near the Infant Jesus Chapel. As soon as locals heard the news, they rushed with water bottles to collect `holy water', forming long queues. The Malwani police had to later rush to the spot to control the crowd.
"The pictures and videos of the statue soon went viral as devotees from Andheri and Bandra rushed to the spot to check for themselves. We also saw people from far off suburbs collecting holy water from the feet", said Greg Periera, resident of Malwani village. George Mendonca, another resident said, "I believe that it is a way that Jesus Christ is trying to make his presence felt to the devotees. We believe that its a miracle and it depends on the perspective of the individuals. We are receiving pictures and messages from every nook and corner, and larger crowds are expected in the next two days," said Mendonca. Meanwhile Fr. Nigel Berret, spokesperson from Bombay Archdiocese, said, "We have not confirmed or sought details of the incident, but have received the pictures from the priests regarding the same". We will have to check before coming to a conclusion, he added.
