A shocking video from Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district has ignited widespread outrage after it showed a man approaching a wild lion while it was feeding on its prey. The reckless act, captured on camera, has since gone viral on social media and prompted action from forest authorities.

The incident occurred in the Sim area between Bambhor and Talli villages in the Talaja region. In the footage, a man, later identified as Gautam, is seen dangerously close to the lion, holding up a mobile phone to film the animal. Completely disregarding the peril, he walks toward the predator as it devours its kill.

Despite the lion’s initial indifference, the animal quickly becomes agitated. It halts its meal, growls loudly, and moves toward Gautam—seemingly issuing a warning. The man, however, doesn’t stop recording. He cautiously steps backward while keeping his phone pointed at the lion, even as background voices—believed to be of local villagers—can be heard shouting in alarm to distract the animal.

No Injuries, But Outrage Follows Lion Encounter

The lion, after circling its prey and briefly approaching the man, eventually settles back down to continue feeding. Luckily, no injuries were reported. But the stunt has drawn strong criticism online, with many calling it “reckless” and “stupid,” and urging strict action to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Forest department officials launched an investigation shortly after the video gained traction online. The man was located and taken into custody. “A lion was calmly feeding when this person deliberately approached to record a video. The lion got up in anger, and it could have ended very badly. Such behaviour is not just irresponsible, it’s punishable,” a forest official told India Today. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Forest Act.

According to reports, the video appears to have been filmed from a distance, likely by the man’s companions, who can be heard panicking as the lion charges forward. Gautam even attempted to circle around the carcass and hide briefly while filming, an act that further agitated the wild animal.

X Post Highlights Man’s Close Call With Feeding Lion

The caption on the original X (formerly Twitter) post read, “The lion was happily eating its prey when this young man reached near the lion to take photos. At which the lion showed some displeasure. The video is from Bhavnagar, Gujarat.”

Many social media users expressed concern that had the lion attacked the man, it might have faced the consequences—possibly being tranquilised or killed as a precautionary measure. Comments also highlighted how such stunts not only put humans at risk but could endanger the lives of wild animals unnecessarily.

Officials reiterated that the man’s act was both unlawful and dangerous. “A few clicks aren’t worth a life—human or animal,” the official added, emphasising the need for greater awareness about wildlife safety and legal protections in such areas.