A rescue operation in Odisha has caught widespread attention for its danger, emotion, and an unexpected wildlife twist. In Nayagarh district, a minor boy remained trapped inside a narrow rock crevice for nearly seven hours while a python stayed close by. Thankfully, the snake did not attack, and the Odisha fire service successfully brought the boy out alive.
The unusual incident happened in Kanipada forest in Odisha’s Nayagarh district on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Sibha Pradhan, a minor from Baunsagadia village, had gone with other villagers to collect honey from a wild beehive. The hive was located in a tight gap between two large boulders.
While trying to reach the honey, Sibha stretched his hand into the narrow crevice. In the process, both his head and hand got stuck between the rocks. He was unable to free himself, and panic quickly spread among the people nearby.
According to Sibha, he entered the gap in the morning, hoping to collect honey, but soon realized he was trapped and could not move back. His condition worried the villagers, who immediately alerted the local fire service.
What made this rescue even more shocking was the presence of a python near the trapped boy. In such a stressful situation, the fear of a possible snake attack made the operation far more risky.
However, in a surprising turn, the python remained calm and did not harm the child during the entire rescue effort. This detail has made the incident even more remarkable, as both rescuers and villagers feared the worst.
Sudhanshu Sarangi, Director General of Fire Services, said the rescue was not only unusual but also technically difficult. He also described it as a blessing that the python did not attack the boy while the team worked to free him.
The rescue team faced several problems from the beginning. The spot was deep inside a forest area, making it hard for heavy vehicles and equipment to reach the location. Fire service stations from Odagaon and Nayagarh responded first, but the difficult terrain meant local teams needed extra support.
Because of the technical challenge, a specialized team from Bhubaneswar was called in. Reaching the trapped child with proper tools took time, and every minute mattered.
The rescue operation required patience, teamwork, and careful planning. Since the boy’s body was tightly wedged inside the rock gap, any wrong move could have caused injury.
After more than seven hours of continuous effort, the rescue team used a heavy-duty hydraulic jack to slightly shift one of the large boulders. This created just enough space for Sibha to be pulled out safely.
Throughout the operation, the rescuers kept talking to the boy to help him stay calm. They also gave him water and emotional support so that he could remain stable until the final moment of rescue.
Soon after being rescued, Sibha was rushed to a hospital for treatment and medical examination. Doctors later confirmed that he was out of danger, bringing relief to his family, villagers, and the rescue teams.
CM Mohan Charan Majhi praised the Odisha Fire Services team on X, calling the rescue successful and lauding their courage, professionalism, and quick response.
