A remarkable video capturing a man fearlessly holding a giant King Cobra with his bare hands has taken the internet by storm. Shared by Indian Forest Service officer Parveen Kaswan, the 11-second clip highlights the man’s astonishing composure as he grips the enormous snake, leaving viewers both amazed and apprehensive. The video vividly illustrates the sheer size of the King Cobra, a creature known for its impressive length and potent venom.

In his tweet accompanying the video, Mr. Kaswan poses intriguing questions about the King Cobra’s habitat in India and offers advice on what to do if one encounters this formidable reptile. The post has sparked a wave of reactions online, with users expressing emotions ranging from awe at the snake’s size to fear and respect for its power. One user recounted an encounter with a 17-foot King Cobra alongside a snake charmer, describing it as an unforgettable experience that evoked both fascination and dread.

Another commenter shared their experience of seeing a real cobra in the wild, noting its intimidating dark color and menacing hiss that left them sleepless. A third user advised maintaining a safe distance when encountering a King Cobra in regions like the Western Ghats, emphasizing caution and respect for these majestic creatures.

The King Cobra, recognized as the world’s longest venomous snake, can grow up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) and is predominantly found in Southeast Asia’s dense forests, including India’s Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. Despite their fearsome reputation, King Cobras play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling prey populations.

In another viral incident, a Kerala woman forest officer was lauded for her bravery in rescuing a massive King Cobra from a stream near Peppara in Thiruvananthapuram. Her actions have been widely praised as an exemplary effort in conserving India’s rich biodiversity.