Watch | Pune's snake trio's rare zigzag movement sparks online debate – is this 'Sarpamani' or a 'snake fight'

A bizarre video recorded in Pune Cantonment went viral on all social media websites, with three snakes seemingly exhibiting a choreographed, synchronised movement on a public road. The bizarre interaction has fascinated and confused viewers, leading to an online debate about the behaviour. While some speculate it's a depiction of the ancient ritual known as Sarpamani, others claim it's a classic case of snake fighting, a phenomenon typical in the mating season. With no undeniable explanation, the video has become the centre of intrigue, capturing attention from wildlife lovers and experts alike.


Snake dance in rare zigzag pattern goes viral


The clip, which was first posted by the Instagram account @WeUttarPradesh, was described as a sighting of the lesser-known cultural icon Sarpamani — a reference that features snakes. Two snakes can be observed coiling and interlacing each other in an impressive zigzag motion, with a third snake seeming to watch from afar. At the end, all three snakes get themselves into a matted, flowing pattern that has been compared to a choreographed dance.

#पुणे : पुणे छावनी में एक दुर्लभ वीडियो सामने आया है, जिसमें एक पारंपरिक सर्पमणी के दृश्य को कैद किया गया है। #viral #viralvideo pic.twitter.com/AOCUAdNhy8

— UttarPradesh.ORG News (@WeUttarPradesh) April 10, 2025

Rare snake trio video in Pune cantonment sparks debate online


Since its emergence online, the clip has garnered thousands of views and comments, raising curiosity as well as bewilderment. Social media participants have reacted with both wonder and disbelief. One user questioned, "Is this Sarpamani?", and another asked, "Can anyone tell me what is happening in this video?"

A few native residents pointed out the infestation of snakes within the area, observing that such encounters are a commonplace phenomenon in and around Pune's semi-urban and verdant areas. Other residents theorized over the nature of the behavior as ritualistic, or as an effect of climate change on animal activity.



What is ‘Sarpamani’


The Sarpamani is mentioned in certain local folklore and is usually loosely linked to serpent rituals, mythological symbolism, or unusual natural phenomena centered on snakes. But there is no scientifically accepted phenomenon by the same name within zoology or herpetology. It could be the case that the word is being used culturally to explain a visually dramatic interaction with snakes but not according to biological behaviour.



Experts explain viral snake 'dance' as a mating ritual


In spite of the artistic interpretation of the scene as a "dance," a more biological explanation is offered by herpetologists. According to experts, the display in the video is most likely an example of combat ritual or mating competition among male snakes.

In most species of snakes — particularly in cobras and rat snakes — males compete with non-fatal wrestling in order to prove dominance during breeding season. They use coiling, shoving, and standing upright in an attempt to win over competition. The introduction of a third snake, a supposed female, serves to add validity to this idea, since it is generally exhibited during times of reproduction.

While the snakes seem to ‘dance’ , the action is better explained as a territorial battle and not a ritual or celebratory performance.




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