Devotees mistake AC water for holy ‘Charan Amrit’ at Banke Bihari temple: Video goes viral

In recent days, devotees at the Banke Bihari Mandir in Mathura Vrindavan queued up to drink water dripping from an elephant sculpture, believing it to be ‘Charan Amrit’ or holy water from the feet of Lord Krishna. Viral footage shows devotees collecting and drinking the water that was flowing from elephant-shaped tubes integrated into the temple’s architecture.

Reports indicate that the mysterious water was not sacred but discharge from the temple's air conditioning system. Despite warnings from some individuals, many visitors continued to drink or splash themselves with the water.



The video, which has garnered 2.8 million views on X, sparked discussions about the devotees' actions. Comments ranged from questioning their gullibility to expressing concern over the lack of scientific thinking. One user on X said, “A mind without scientific temper is the birthplace of myths, superstition, hate, division. It's a threat to democracy and promotes herd mentality.” Another user questioned, “Why does nobody stop for a second and even think about what's happening here? Such a herd mentality.”

Dr. Liver also issued a cautionary note, warning against drinking AC water. He stated, “Cooling and air conditioning systems are breeding grounds for many types of infections including fungus, some really hellish.”

The incident is reminiscent of a 2012 event in Mumbai where water from a crucified Jesus statue drew crowds, who believed it was a miracle, until it was revealed as a result of a faulty sewage system.