Srirampur, Tuesday, 29 July 2025 :“Snakes mean death” is the first scary reaction for many. However, for Rajshree Alhat-Amolik of Srirampur, snakes are a precious part of nature. Her curiosity about snakes since childhood became her life’s goal. Due to her colorful skin, galloping style, and respect for their natural role, Rajshree took a vow to protect snakes.
The beginning of snake friendship and the journey of training
Rajshree, a resident of Belapur, has become the first snake friend in Ahilyanagar district. To gain scientific knowledge about snakes, she studied many books and also took guidance from experienced snake experts. After receiving hands-on training from the famous snake friend Akash Jadhav in the city, she started her own journey of snake friendship. While working at Radhabai Kale Mahila Vidyalaya, she combined the responsibility of being a snake friend with her work.
Saving the lives of over a thousand snakes
In the last eight years, Rajshree has safely captured over a thousand snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, and released them back into their natural habitat. Considering the sensitivity of snakes, she has never harmed them. Her aim is not to create fear among people but to create awareness about snakes, which is evident from her work today.
Many awards and honours
Rajshree, who holds an MA (Political Science), was a member of the NCC while in college and participated in the Republic Day Parade in Delhi in 2017. She has won gold medals in international karate competitions and has also made a name for herself in sports such as fencing and athletics. She has been honoured with many awards by various organisations for her work.
Snake catching is a combination of skill and discipline
Snake catching is not just a matter of courage, but also a very delicate and technical skill. A small mistake can put lives at risk. Therefore, Rajshree is of the clear opinion that proper training and discipline are necessary for such work. She has also warned that people should not try to catch snakes just for fun.
Caught a snake even during pregnancy
Even during her nine months of pregnancy, she did not stop her work as a snake keeper. She responded to phone calls to catch snakes day and night, without any break. Her husband Nilesh Amolik is in the army. On one occasion, while she was saying goodbye to her husband at the railway station, she received a call from Chandegaon to catch a snake. She said goodbye to her husband who was leaving and went straight to the spot and caught the snake. Her family has also always actively supported her in this work.
