New Delhi, Aug. 11 -- A tourist's reckless attempt to get close to a wild elephant in Bandipur National Park nearly ended in tragedy on Sunday. The man, who had stepped out of his vehicle on a busy highway between Melkamanahalli and Bandipur, reportedly to take a video or selfie, ended up provoking the animal.

According to The Hindu, the elephant charged at him. As the tourist tried to flee, he stumbled and fell, with the tusker just steps away from trampling him. In a stroke of luck, the wild elephant turned away and walked back towards the forest, sparing his life.

The heart-stopping chase, caught on camera, quickly went viral on social media.

IAS officer Supriya Sahu posted the video on X with a strong warning: What a reckless act i...