Several snake hatchlings were rescued from a group of villagers following a ritual of idolising the reptiles immersed in milk, in central India’s Madhya Pradesh.

The incident took place on July 6 in a small village of Bhimpur in Betul.

According to Hindu mythology, snakes are embodiments of Adishesha, the king of snakes, and are to be worshipped in the month of ‘Saawan’, or monsoon, by feeding them milk to invite prosperity.

The cobra hatchlings were reportedly found near a farmer’s house in the village and were placed in a deep pot for the purpose of milk feeding.

In visuals, the hatchlings can be seen being worshipped in a pot, together with milk poured in, placed beside a pile of coconuts.

Soon the news of this ritual was heard by forest department officials, who rushed to the place of worship to rescue the baby-snakes from the life-threatening situation.

Later the reptiles were released into the forest by officials, and an investigation is underway, according to reports.

Strict action shall be taken against culprits if a case of wildlife endangerment comes to light, following the investigation.