Controversial Ritual: Devotees Pour Over 165 Liters of Ghee into Ganga River

Viral Video Sparks Debate on Environmental Impact

A video circulating on social media has ignited a nationwide discussion, showcasing devotees pouring over 165 liters of ghee into the Ganga River. While it may appear to be a grand religious ceremony at first glance, environmentalists and many citizens view it as a significant threat to the river's ecosystem. The footage reveals a thick layer of ghee spreading across the water's surface, raising concerns among internet users about its impact. Ghee, being lighter than water, prevents oxygen from entering the water, potentially endangering fish and other aquatic life.

Some individuals defend this act as a long-standing tradition, while a considerable number criticize it as blind faith and a source of pollution. The question arises: why is the sacred Ganga being jeopardized in the name of devotion?

What’s the story behind the viral video? The clip shows individuals pouring a substantial amount of ghee into the Ganga, with claims that it exceeds 165 liters. A man and a woman can be seen reverently pouring ghee from a vessel at the riverbank. As the video progresses, more people join in, and some men arrive with large cans, indicating that this is not an isolated act but rather a coordinated religious ritual.

What transpired in the river? In the latter part of the video, the boat reaches the middle of the river, where participants begin to open cans and pour ghee directly into the water. The thick layer of ghee continues to spread across the surface. As the video gained traction, a flood of comments emerged, with many users labeling it as hazardous to the environment. They argue that the ghee's surface layer could diminish oxygen levels in the water, posing a threat to aquatic life.

Some users emphasized the importance of respecting religion but called for reflection on actions that harm nature. Others labeled it as blind faith, questioning whether it is acceptable to jeopardize the environment in the name of religious practices. This is not the first instance of controversy surrounding offerings in the Ganga; previous incidents involving milk, flowers, and other materials have also raised concerns. Experts warn that such actions can adversely affect the river's health.