Odisha Forest Department Intervenes: Cobras Rescued from Wedding Performance

Rescue Operation in Bhadrak

In Bhadrak, Odisha, officials from the forest department successfully rescued three cobras that were being used in a wedding dance performance, as reported on Thursday.

The event unfolded in Chhedak village, located within the jurisdiction of the Dhamara police station, late on Wednesday night.

A snake charmer, accompanied by a male and female performer, entertained the wedding guests, known as 'baraatis', by dancing to a well-known 'nagin' song while traversing Dhamra Chandbali Road.

The performers showcased their skills by dancing to the rhythm of drums and other instruments, all while managing the snakes, either in baskets or held in their hands.

Upon receiving a tip-off, a team from the Bhadrak Wildlife Division intervened and rescued the snakes from the procession.

Soubhagya Kumar Sahu, the Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife), stated, 'We have confiscated the snakes and are currently working to identify the snake charmer involved. The Special Task Force (STF) has been enlisted to aid in the investigation.'

As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this incident, according to the DFO.

Utilizing wild animals such as cobras for entertainment purposes is a violation of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.