A strange and alarming incident in Kerala’s Malappuram district recently left shoppers stunned after a migrant worker was bitten by a snake he had been carrying inside his trouser pocket while walking through a crowded marketplace.
The bizarre episode took place in Othayi town near Areekode, where the man, identified by local reports as a daily wage labourer from Assam, was seen casually moving around the market area with a live snake tucked into his pants pocket. Witnesses said many people initially failed to notice what was happening until the tail of the reptile became visible.
According to eyewitnesses, the man appeared intoxicated and repeatedly attempted to impress people by showing off the snake. He reportedly claimed that he knew how to handle snakes and continued pulling the reptile out of his pocket despite warnings from bystanders. During the stunt, the snake bit him multiple times on the hand.
Locals gathered around in shock as the man continued handling the reptile even after being bitten. Concerned residents eventually intervened and convinced him to seek medical attention. He was first taken to a nearby clinic and later shifted to Manjeri Government Medical College Hospital for further treatment. Doctors later confirmed that his condition was stable.
Medical staff later identified the snake as a non-venomous species, with reports suggesting it may have been either a banded kukri snake or an Indian sand boa. Although the bites were not life-threatening, doctors kept the man under observation before discharging him.
Videos of the unusual incident quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread reactions ranging from disbelief to concern. Many users criticised the dangerous stunt, while others expressed shock that someone would willingly carry a live snake in their pocket in a crowded public area.
Authorities and wildlife experts have since reminded the public not to handle snakes without proper training, warning that even non-venomous species can cause injuries and panic. Experts also noted that rising temperatures often force snakes into populated areas in search of cooler shelter and food.