Python rescued from dance troupe during Ganesh procession in Hyderabad

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People from the Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA), along with Madhura Nagar police staff with the rescued snake and hen. | Photo Credit: By Arrangement

An Indian rock python , allegedly used during a dance performance at a Ganesh immersion procession, was rescued by animal welfare activists with the assistance of the police in Hyderabad on Sunday (September 20, 2026).

Soudhram Bhandari from the Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA) said that the team had been tracking a dance group from Visakhapatnam for five days following information that a live snake was being used during its performances.

The team had attempted to intervene during a Ganesh immersion procession in Kondapur on September 19, but the alleged snake handler fled before he could be apprehended.

After receiving information about the group’s presence at another procession in Jawaharnagar the following day, GHSPCA coordinated with the Madhuranagar Police and reached the spot.

The alleged handler was apprehended and an Indian rock python and a hen were found in his possession. GHSPCA alleged that the python was being openly displayed during the road performance while the chicken was subjected to cruel treatment. The reptile and the bird were subsequently rescued.

The python, protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, was placed under veterinary observation. GHSPCA said an examination found an infection affecting its oral cavity and teeth.

“The python will continue to receive treatment and, after recovery, is expected to be released into its natural habitat subject to permission from the competent wildlife authorities,” said the GHSPCA.

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