KKN Gurugram Desk | In a distressing incident from Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, renowned snake rescuer and YouTuber Murliwale Hausla (real name: Murli Dhar Hausla) was bitten by a cobra during a rescue operation. Known for saving over 8,000 snakes, Hausla was performing one of his routine rescues when the unexpected attack occurred. He has since been admitted to the ICU of a private hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Who is Murliwale Hausla?

Murliwale Hausla is a popular figure in wildlife rescue circles and social media. With 15.8 million subscribers on YouTube, 5.5 million followers on Facebook, and 2.5 million on Instagram, he has built a reputation for fearlessly rescuing venomous snakes, especially from human-inhabited areas, often at great personal risk.

Hailing from Belapar Naupedwa village in the Baksha block of Jaunpur, Murli has spent years educating the public on coexisting with snakes and providing emergency rescue services across villages. He also engages in humanitarian efforts, particularly helping poor families and conducting awareness drives.

The Incident: Cobra Strikes During a Rescue

The incident occurred in Haripur Chaktali, located in the Jalalpur police station area, where a cobra had become trapped in a fishing net. On receiving the call for rescue, Murli reached the spot with his team. During the extraction, however, he made a slight error, which led to the cobra striking him on his hand.

Despite the venomous bite, Hausla didn’t stop the rescue. According to eyewitness Ankit Gupta, a member of Hausla’s team, Murli calmly completed the rescue, ensuring the safety of nearby residents first.

When the team tried to rush him to the hospital, their vehicle failed to start. Thanks to local villagers, Murli was taken to a hospital on a motorcycle, reaching in approximately 35 minutes. Doctors immediately administered 12 doses of anti-snake venom.

Medical Update: Out of Danger, Still Under Observation

Dr. B.S. Upadhyay, who is treating Hausla, confirmed that the bite was serious but that the patient is now out of immediate danger. However, he remains in the ICU for continued monitoring. Notably, this isn’t the first time Murli has been bitten—he has previously survived two venomous snakebites during past rescues.

Community Support and Social Media Reactions

News of the bite has triggered a massive response on social media. Followers and well-wishers are flooding Murli’s pages with prayers and encouraging messages. His courage and selfless commitment have inspired thousands across India and beyond, making this event particularly heart-wrenching for his fan base.

The Bigger Picture: Risks of Wildlife Rescue

Murliwale Hausla’s story highlights the extreme risks that wildlife rescuers in India face—often with little formal support or infrastructure. These brave individuals operate in challenging conditions to protect both people and animals, many times with minimal equipment and zero official funding.

Despite the perils, people like Murli continue to serve on the frontlines, bridging the gap between man and wildlife through education, compassion, and action.

A Call for Support and Awareness

Hausla’s fans and wildlife advocates are now calling for better medical support, insurance coverage, and training facilities for independent rescuers in India. The situation raises a larger question: Should people risking their lives for environmental protection remain without institutional backing?

Legacy of a Hero

Even as Murliwale Hausla recovers in ICU, his legacy as a real-life hero grows. His YouTube videos, featuring daring snake rescues and public safety tutorials, have not only educated millions but also helped reduce snake-related panic and violence in rural areas.

Whether it’s lifting cobras from toilets or pulling vipers out of water tanks, Murli’s work is a testament to the power of individual initiative, wildlife conservation, and human empathy.

This incident is a stark reminder of the risks involved in wildlife rescue and the need for formal recognition and support for rescuers like Murliwale Hausla. As he continues to recover, his fans and fellow conservationists remain hopeful that he will return stronger, and perhaps, that this event will spark a movement to protect those who protect nature.