A surprising incident occurred at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, where numerous devotees mistakenly drank water from air conditioning drainage, believing it to be “Charan Amrit,” or holy water. This incident highlights the importance of awareness and critical thinking in religious practices, particularly in places of worship.
What Happened at Banke Bihari Temple?
In a viral video, devotees gathered under an elephant sculpture, mistakenly believing AC water to be holy, later confirmed by reports.
The Viral Video and Its Impact
The video shows a bystander warning the devotees about the true source of the water. Despite the warning, many continued to drink or splash themselves with the water, convinced of its sanctity. This incident sparked a debate online, with many viewers emphasizing the need for critical thinking. One viewer remarked, “A mind without scientific temper is the birthplace of myths and superstitions,” highlighting the dangers of herd mentality. Another user expressed surprise at the lack of questioning, asking, “Why does nobody pause to think for a moment?”
Serious education is needed 100%
People are drinking AC water, thinking it is ‘Charanamrit’ from the feet of God !! pic.twitter.com/bYJTwbvnNK
— ZORO (@BroominsKaBaap) November 3, 2024
Health Concerns Raised
Following the incident, a public health warning was issued by a physician known as “The Liver Doc” on social media. He cautioned followers against drinking air conditioning water, stating it could be a breeding ground for infections, including fungal ones. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential health risks associated with consuming unknown sources of water.
Historical Context
This incident at the Banke Bihari Temple drew comparisons to a similar occurrence in Mumbai in 2012. At that time, water from a “weeping crucifix” statue led hundreds of devotees to believe in a miraculous phenomenon. Investigators later discovered that a nearby faulty sewage pipe was the source of the “holy water.”
Conclusion
The Banke Bihari Temple incident highlights the need for awareness and scientific thinking in religious settings to prevent similar misunderstandings.
This incident serves as a vital lesson for devotees and the general public alike, emphasizing the need for critical inquiry and a scientific approach to understanding beliefs, especially in places of worship.
(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)
