A remarkable display of animal courage and solidarity has captivated the internet after a video emerged showing a group of monkeys attempting a daring river rescue in Odisha. The incident, which took place in the Mahakalapada area of Kendrapara district, involved a troop of monkeys trying to save one of their own from the jaws of a saltwater crocodile.
The Dramatic Rescue Attempt
The heart-stopping footage, which surfaced online on December 28, 2025, captures the tense moments after a crocodile suddenly attacked and dragged a monkey into the water. Instead of fleeing to safety, a large number of its companions plunged into the river. In an astonishing act of bravery, the monkeys were seen swimming in a straight line directly towards the reptile in a coordinated bid to chase it and free their fellow primate.
The scene unfolded in a region criss-crossed by waterways, including the Kharinasi tributary of the Mahanadi river, where crocodile sightings are a common occurrence. Unfortunately, despite their valiant effort, the troop's rescue mission was unsuccessful, and they failed to save the captured monkey from the predator.
Wave of Reactions and Crocodile Territory
The video quickly went viral on social media platforms, sparking a flood of reactions from stunned viewers. Many users praised the monkeys' fearless act. One user described it as "an extraordinary moment of animal solidarity—instinct, courage, and compassion on full display in the wild." Another commented on the "wildest teamwork," while a third simply stated, "Extremely courageous monkeys. Appreciate them."
The location of the incident is no stranger to such reptilian encounters. Crocodiles are frequently spotted across Odisha, with a significant population residing in the Bhitarkanika National Park, which is home to India's largest congregation of saltwater crocodiles. Coastal zones like Astaranga and Chandrabhaga near Puri also report regular sightings.
Broader Context and Wildlife Conflicts
This event highlights the ongoing risks these waterways pose to both wildlife and, at times, human communities. Reports indicate that in recent months, floods have displaced crocodiles from their natural habitats into nearby villages, increasing the potential for conflict.
The incident also brings to mind other extraordinary examples of primate behavior. In a separate event in 2021 in Maharashtra's Beed district, langurs were reported to have carried out what was described as revenge killings. After dogs killed an infant monkey, the langurs allegedly hunted down hundreds of puppies, with many dying from a lack of sustenance after being taken to rooftops and trees.
The viral video from Kendrapara serves as a powerful, if tragic, reminder of the complex social bonds and instincts that drive animal behavior in the wild, offering a raw glimpse into the struggles for survival that unfold daily in India's diverse ecosystems.
