Top News

Kanpatimar Shankariya: Who was the notorious serial killer who smoked a beedi after every murder?

Samira Vishwas | August 8, 2026 9:24 AM CST

There are some crimes in Rajasthan’s history that still shock people today. Kanpatimar Shankariya is considered one of India’s most notorious serial killers. His crimes in the late 1970s created an atmosphere of fear in Rajasthan and surrounding areas.

Who was Kanpatimar Shankariya?

Kanpatimar Shankaria was born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, in 1952. He came to prominence for a string of murders during 1977-78. According to police records and his confessions, he admitted to killing approximately 70 people.

Why was it named ‘Kanpatimar’?

Shankariya attacked his victims with a hammer. It is said that he would strike below the ear, near the temple, which is why he came to be known as “Kanpatimar.” His method of attack instilled fear in the public.

How did the fear spread?

A series of murders between 1977 and 1978 increased pressure on the police. Following an investigation, Shankariah was arrested. During interrogation, he confessed to several murders.

Arrest and conviction

Shankaria was arrested in 1978. He was convicted in 1979 and hanged in Jaipur on May 16, 1979. He was about 27 years old at the time.

last minute regrets

According to reports, Shankariya expressed remorse for his crimes while in prison. His final words are said to convey a message that no one should follow his path of crime. The Kanpatimar Shankariya case is one of those in Indian crime history that demonstrates that the impact of crime is not limited to victims and their families, but can create fear and insecurity throughout society.