Viral clip shows Australian tourist rescuing stranded cow in India: 'Thank you for being kind'

Many comments described him as a 'true hero without a cape' and expressed gratitude for his compassion.

An Australian traveller, Duncan McNaught, attracted attention online after assisting in the rescue of a cow that had slipped into a dry roadside drain in India. He shared the incident on Instagram, posting a short video that showed the animal trapped and struggling to move.

In the recording, McNaught reassured onlookers as he approached the situation, saying, “No, he just fell in. We’re gonna rescue. Let’s go. Oh, the sacred cow in India is stranded. It’s okay, buddy.”

The clip captured his first attempt to lift the cowon his own. An on-screen note he added later explained: “I wasn’t strong enough she was heavy 2 people should do the job.” Another man stepped in to help, and together they managed to pull the animal from the drain.

At the end of the footage, McNaught showed a small cut on his hand, joking that he had “scrape[d] my finger up.”

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A post shared by Duncan McNaught (@duncan.mcnaught)

The post quickly spread across social media and drew praise for his actions. One comment read, “What a beautiful act of kindness, you restored my faith in humanity today.” Another wrote, “Not everyone would stop and help like this, much respect.”

Others focused on the relief visible in the freed animal. “The cow looked so relieved, this was really touching,” one user observed, while another remarked, “Blessings to you both! It’s good karma!”

Additional responses commended his willingness to act. “Thank you for being kind to that innocent soul,” one viewer wrote, while another added, “Finally, a good cameraman who helps instead of filming.” A message summed up the general sentiment: “Sacred or not, it doesn’t matter bro. You helped the animal that needed your help. May God bless you and your family.”

Many comments described him as a “true hero without a cape” and expressed gratitude for his compassion.