Roshni, the snake charmer: 16-foot king cobra is latest of 800 snakes rescued by Kerala forest officer

In the lush green wilderness of Kerala, where dense forests teem with diverse wildlife, the job of a forest officer is never easy. Yet, among the many men and women serving to protect the state’s rich biodiversity, one name has recently captured hearts and headlines alike—Roshni, the fearless snake rescuer whose latest feat involved the capture of a massive 16-foot king cobra. This incredible rescue not only showcases her unmatched courage and expertise but also shines a light on the vital role forest officers play in human-wildlife coexistence.

A Remarkable Career Dedicated to Snake Rescue

Roshni, a Beat Forest Officer in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, has been part of the Kerala Forest Department for nearly eight years. Over this time, she has rescued over 800 snakes—both venomous and non-venomous—from human settlements, roadsides, and other precarious places. Her fearless approach to snake rescue and deep knowledge of snake behavior have earned her the nickname “the snake charmer” among locals and wildlife enthusiasts.

Unlike many who might fear venomous snakes, Roshni has embraced the challenge head-on. She is the only woman snake catcher in the Kerala Forest Department and one of its earliest female officers. Her journey is not just about the thrill of wildlife rescue but also a strong message of empowerment, showing that gender is no barrier in wildlife conservation and forest protection.

The 16-Foot King Cobra: A Test of Skill and Courage

On a warm morning in early July 2025, Roshni received an urgent call about a massive snake sighting near Peppara in the forests around Thiruvananthapuram. Upon arrival, she discovered a 16-foot-long king cobra—the largest venomous snake species in India and one of the most feared due to its potent venom and intimidating size.

The king cobra was a majestic yet dangerous presence, silently coiled near a pathway frequently used by locals. Removing it safely was critical not just for the snake’s welfare but to prevent potential human-snake conflicts.

What happened next stunned many. Within just six minutes, Roshni skillfully captured the huge serpent without protective gear like gloves or gumboots—tools many experts recommend for safety. Her calm demeanor, swift movements, and deep understanding of the king cobra’s behavior made the rescue look almost effortless.

The entire rescue was recorded on video, rapidly going viral across social media platforms. People across India and beyond admired Roshni’s bravery and expertise. Wildlife experts praised her skill, noting that handling such a large king cobra without protective gear requires exceptional presence of mind and years of experience.

A Career Built on Compassion and Commitment

Roshni’s approach to snake rescue is deeply rooted in compassion. Unlike those who might see snakes as pests or threats, she understands their ecological importance. Snakes play a critical role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining balanced ecosystems.

Her rescue missions often involve snakes trapped in homes, agricultural fields, or urban areas, places where human and snake habitats overlap dangerously. Each rescue is an effort to return the snake safely to its natural habitat, minimizing harm to both humans and the reptiles.

Despite the dangers, Roshni often refuses to wear heavy protective gear. She believes that too much gear can restrict her movements and create panic in the snake, making the rescue more difficult. Instead, she relies on her knowledge of snake behavior, gentle handling techniques, and quick reflexes.

Her nearly 800 rescues include a variety of species, from the common rat snake to the venomous Russell’s viper and spectacled cobra. But the king cobra rescue stands out as a landmark achievement in her career.

Breaking Stereotypes: A Woman in a Male-Dominated Field

In a profession traditionally dominated by men, Roshni’s success as a female forest officer is inspiring. The physical demands, risks, and long hours associated with forest duties often discourage women from entering this line of work.

Roshni, however, has shattered these barriers. She has proven that with determination, training, and passion, women can excel in wildlife conservation and frontline forest protection.

Her story encourages many young women in Kerala and across India to consider careers in forestry and wildlife management. It also challenges outdated notions of gender roles in conservation work.

Public Recognition and Social Impact

The viral video of Roshni’s king cobra rescue has triggered widespread public admiration. Politicians, wildlife experts, and activists have lauded her courage and skill. Among them, Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor praised Roshni’s dedication and called for greater recognition and support for forest officers who risk their lives daily.

Wildlife conservationists have also highlighted the need for more such trained professionals, especially women, who can foster better community engagement and reduce human-wildlife conflicts through awareness and humane rescue operations.

Beyond the viral fame, Roshni continues her work quietly, focusing on educating local communities about snakes and dispelling myths that often lead to unnecessary killing of these reptiles.

Challenges Faced by Forest Officers Like Roshni

Despite the critical role forest officers play, many face challenges such as lack of resources, understaffing, and sometimes inadequate training. Female officers often have to overcome additional hurdles related to workplace safety and social expectations.

Roshni’s refusal to wear protective gear is partly due to lack of availability or discomfort, but it also highlights the need for better safety equipment designed for snake rescue professionals.

Moreover, the increasing human encroachment into forest areas means more frequent encounters between snakes and people, raising the stakes for quick, safe rescue operations.

The Bigger Picture: Conservation and Coexistence

Roshni’s story is a vivid reminder of the fragile balance between humans and wildlife. As forests shrink and urban areas expand, encounters with snakes and other wild animals will only increase.

Forest officers like Roshni act as the bridge between humans and nature, ensuring that snakes are not harmed unnecessarily while also protecting people from potential dangers.

Her dedication exemplifies the growing importance of wildlife conservation at the grassroots level. By educating communities, performing rescues, and working tirelessly in the field, officers help foster coexistence and respect for nature.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Bravery and Hope

Roshni, the snake charmer of Kerala, embodies courage, skill, and compassion. Her rescue of the 16-foot king cobra is not just a thrilling wildlife story but a testament to the critical role women play in conservation.

Her nearly 800 snake rescues tell a tale of commitment to preserving biodiversity and protecting communities. As she continues to break barriers and inspire future generations, Roshni reminds us all that bravery is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it for a higher cause.

In the verdant forests of Kerala, she stands tall—a beacon of hope for snakes, humans, and the delicate natural world that binds them.