‘As If Ganga And Yamuna Were Not Enough’: Viral Video Of Man Washing Feet In Thames Sparks Debate

Last Updated:November 16, 2025, 12:47 IST

A video of an Indian man washing his feet in the River Thames sparked online debate, criticism, and highlighted concerns over water quality and pollution in London’s iconic river.

A video of an Indian man washing his feet in the River Thames sparked online debate, criticism, and highlighted concerns over water quality and pollution in London’s iconic river. (Pic; X)

A video of an Indian man washing his feet in the River Thames has gone viral, sparking a mix of criticism, confusion, and cultural debate online. The clip shows the man standing at the river’s edge in central London, rinsing his feet, and some reports claim he later took a full bath in the water.

The Thames, one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, flows past major tourist sites including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge. The act quickly drew reactions across social media, with many users divided over whether it was inappropriate or harmless.

One viewer commented, “The colour of the river shows that it’s better not to wash anything." Another wrote, “Don’t wash your feet, bro. They are drinking this water, please don’t wash." Others questioned the outrage altogether: “With all due respect, what’s the issue with washing feet in the river?" one user asked. “Is it illegal to dip your foot into the water?" another added.

Some comments took a xenophobic tone, with one user on X writing, “Why are Indians doing this type of stupidity?" Another said, “As if Ganga and Yamuna were not enough, they want to make the Thames a replica."

The debate has also highlighted long-standing concerns about river safety. Environmental campaigners recently detected high levels of E. coli and sewage contamination in parts of the Thames, according to The Guardian. Investigators also noted the spread of “wet-wipe islands" — large masses of flushed wipes and plastics — including a significant one near Hammersmith Bridge in west London.

Water quality issues are not limited to London alone. assessments show a record number of designated bathing sites across England now rated as having “poor" water quality, with several locations along the Thames also falling short of standards.

News world ‘As If Ganga And Yamuna Were Not Enough’: Viral Video Of Man Washing Feet In Thames Sparks Debate

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