Samastipur: Jai Kumar Sahni, a self-taught snake rescuer revered across Bihar for saving more than 2,000 snakes, died tragically this week after being bitten by a cobra during a routine rescue. The 38-year-old, known locally as the “Snake Friend”, succumbed to the venom before he could receive lifesaving treatment.
Jai Sahni, a resident of Harpur Bhindi Panchayat in Samastipur district, had gained a local hero status for his daring and compassionate work with snakes—particularly highly venomous species. Over the past five years, he regularly responded to villagers’ calls, fearlessly capturing serpents and releasing them into safer forested areas.
Witnesses said Jai Sahni had gone to Gunai Bashi Panchayat to rescue a snake when a cobra struck, biting his right thumb. He was rushed to a local facility and later referred to Sadar Hospital in Samastipur. However, doctors confirmed that by the time he arrived, the venom had already overwhelmed his system. Dr. Santosh Kumar, a physician at the hospital, stated: “It was too late. The poison had spread rapidly and no antivenom could have saved him by then.”
Family and villagers mourned the loss deeply. “He loved animals since he was a child,” said his father, Shivlangan Sahni. “He learned everything on his own. No one taught him how to handle snakes.”
Locals described Jai Sahni’s confidence with snakes as almost mystical—often catching them barehanded, without any protective gear. But this very confidence, some said, may have contributed to the miscalculated risk that cost him his life.
Jai Sahni leaves behind his wife of 13 years and two young children. The community is grieving a man who gave his life to the creatures most others feared. For many, he wasn’t just a rescuer—he was a symbol of fearless empathy in rural Bihar.
“He saved thousands of lives—both human and animal,” said one mourner. “But in the end, he couldn’t save his own.”
