Girls her age usually love dolls and rubber toys, but not Maharani. At three years old, Dilan Maharani from Indonesia loved playing with her crocodile and pet python. What caught the world’s attention in 2019 was Maharani happily bathing a small crocodile in her little bathtub and brushing its teeth. The reptile seemed to be enjoying the pampering while lying calmly in her lap.
Meet Dilan Maharani.
Dilan Maharani is a fearless Indonesian girl who lives with three exotic pets in Tangerang, Indonesia. The unusual choice of such pets is questionable in terms of parenting; why on earth did Maharani’s parents allow their little daughter to be in the company of such wild and unpredictable animals? Well, the truth is more than that.
Maharani and Ndut
The unusual footage of Maharani and her pet croc, Ndut, went viral in 2019. It showcased the unexpected bond between the child and the reptile, but even more so, it amazed people how the reptiles were so docile in her presence. In one video clip, she is seen sharing a bath with the crocodile.
Ndut Is Exceptionally Calm in Maharani’s Presence
In another video clip, Maharani is seen brushing Ndut’s teeth. What’s weird is how the crocodile seems to be enjoying the spa treatment. It enjoys the pampering and attention it receives from its little mistress. Many wondered how the crocodile was so gentle; the answer, of course, is heartwarming.
Purchased By Maharani’s Father as A Baby
The crocodile was just a tiny baby when Syahrul Effendi purchased it from the Jatinegara Animal Market in Jakarta. The reptile was 80 cm long and was severely wounded with injuries all over its body. Taking pity on it, Effendi bought it home.
The Crocodile Was Cared for By Maharani.
When Effendi had purchased the crocodile, Maharani was just 2 years old. The little girl cared for the animal nursing it back to health. The baby croc improved in health, and by the time Maharani was three, the reptile had grown to four feet long.
A Bond Based on Love and Trust
Growing up with Maharani, the crocodile named Ndut bonded with the girl and never once acted aggressively in her presence. Several people were fearful for her life and advised Effendi to get rid of it, but no once did the crocodile remotely give Effendi any reason to do so.
The Second Exotic Pet
Effendi noticed his daughter’s affinity for interacting with animals. He observed how animals remained calm in her presence and felt she was gifted. Maharani soon acquired another pet, this time something more alarming, a giant python.
Maharani, a Dedicated Helper
After acquiring the crocodile and nursing it back to health, Effendi, too, began caring for other animals, providing care and shelter for pets. Maharani was his most dedicated helper.
A Regular Animal Whisperer
Maharani plays with the animals and handles them according to her father’s instructions. Speaking to reporters, Effendi commented how he sometimes feared for her safety, but when seeing how the animals calmed down in her presence, he felt reassured. Maharani was a regular animal whisperer.
Treating the Python’s Mouth Ulcer
In one video, the girl was seen treating a mouth ulcer on the python, a task that would be daunting for most adults. Her calm demeanor and care for the python showcased a deep understanding and bond with the animal.
The Python does not like others.
According to Effendi, because of its ulcer, the python disliked being touched. It always appeared stressed and, at one time, twisted itself around the arm of Effendi’s mother, who tried treating it. Amazingly, when Maharani touches the python, the reptile was always relaxed.
The Village’s Reaction
The villagers had mixed reactions to the girl’s interaction with the python. While some were amazed by her fearlessness, others were concerned about the potential dangers.
Not one but Two pythons
It wasn’t before long that Effendi took in a second yellow python. This one too became friends with Maharani and slithered happily around here along with the other Python and Ndut, the crocodile.
Safety Measures and Concerns
Safety is a primary concern in such situations. Experts often warn about the potential risks involved in keeping wild animals as pets, especially for young children.
The Role of Education and Awareness
Educating the public about the behavior of wild animals and the potential risks is crucial. These stories often serve as reminders of the importance of awareness and precaution.
Positive Outcomes and Lessons Learned
Despite the risks, there can be positive outcomes, such as fostering a sense of responsibility and care in children. Such stories can also foster compassion towards animals and how we need to treat animals. The key is to balance these benefits with safety measures.
The Delicate Balance
In conclusion, while the relationships between children and their exotic pets can be heartwarming and fascinating, they also require careful consideration of safety and education. It’s a delicate balance that must be maintained to ensure both the children’s and the animals’ well-being. What do you think? Tell us your opinion in the comments below.
Watch the Video of Maharani Here
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