Asnake unleashed screams, fear, and chaos after appearing amid a crowd gathered near a water area in India. The video, recorded by one of those present, shows the reptile suddenly entering the scene, causing dozens of people to flee desperately to avoid any contact.
However, although the panic was real, the story behind this viral moment is very different from what it appears to be.
In the footage, captured in Uttarakhand, the snake can be seen slithering from the side of the street toward an area that looks like a pool or natural pond, moving through the commotion of people trying to get out of the water. Amid the screams, confusion, and sudden movements, no one seems to notice that the animal, rather than attacking, is simply trying to escape. Its presence caused fear, yes, but its intentions were otherwise.
In India, encounters with snakes are not as unusual as one might think. Especially in rural areas, but also in residential, institutional, or even industrial spaces, it is common to see them roaming nearby. Coexisting with these reptiles has become part of daily life in many regions, even though fear remains a dominant feeling.
The danger of snakes in India
India, being a tropical country, is home to around 270 species of snakes. Of these, only about 60 are venomous. It is true that there are recorded deaths from snake bites, but it is also true that most snakes do not pose a lethal risk. The country has effective antivenoms and medical protocols that help save lives. Among the most dangerous species are the Russell’s viper, the saw-scaled viper, the common krait, and the Indian cobra, responsible for most severe cases.
But are snakes really aggressive toward humans? The answer is no, at least not by nature. Attacks usually happen when the animal feels cornered or threatened. Social fear of these reptiles fueled by myths, misinformation, and negative experiences has created a mistaken perception, leading to unnecessary violent reactions. Killing a snake, besides being an impulsive act, can disrupt the ecological balance of an area.