The evening prayers at Ratnei Temple in Ganjam district, Odisha, were unexpectedly interrupted when the temple priest encountered a 12-foot King cobra inside the premises. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, startling both the priest and devotees present nearby.

The priest had just arrived to begin the evening rituals when he opened the temple door and came face-to-face with the large snake. Realising the potential danger, he refrained from entering the temple and promptly contacted the Chikiti Forest Department for assistance.

This alarming discovery quickly spread through the locality, leading to a wave of panic among residents. Many were concerned for their safety, given the presence of such a highly venomous snake in a place of worship.

Rescue Operation Underway

Members of a local Snake Helpline team arrived at the temple shortly after being alerted to the situation. Their mission to rescue the enormous cobra was not straightforward, as the operation demanded careful and strategic planning.

During the hour-long rescue, the team exhibited great caution. To honour the sanctity of the temple, which is dedicated to a goddess, the rescuers covered their shoes with sacks. This respectful gesture also provided some protection to their legs while navigating the precarious environment.

As the rescue unfolded, an intriguing moment was captured. Nearby festivities included the sound of a dhol, and exceptionally, the King cobra seemed to respond, becoming still and attentive to the rhythm. This unexpected behaviour added a unique element to an already tense situation.

Cobra Safely Captured and Released

After nearly an hour of diligent effort, the Snake Helpline team successfully managed to capture the approximately 12-foot-long King cobra. The successful operation alleviated the concerns of nearby residents, allowing normalcy to return to the temple.

Following its capture, the enormous reptile was safely transported away from the temple premises. The team then released the cobra back into its natural habitat, ensuring that it could continue to thrive in the wild without posing a threat to the local community.

This unusual event served as a reminder of the importance of wildlife awareness, especially in areas where human habitation intersects with natural habitats. The swift action taken by the priest and the rescue team demonstrated the community’s commitment to both human and wildlife safety.

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