• Source:JND
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A short video of an Indian man washing his feet in the River Thames has fired up an intense debate on social media, drawing reactions that range from cultural confusion to outright xenophobia. Shot near central London, the clip shows him standing at the river's edge, rinsing his feet.

Video Goes Viral, Triggers Sharp Reactions

The Thames, which flows past landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Tower Bridge, is one of the UK’s most recognisable public spaces. Within hours of being posted on X, the video drew thousands of comments, with users sharply divided over whether the man’s action was inappropriate or harmless.

While several viewers mocked the act, others questioned the backlash. One user commented that the colour of the river alone was enough reason not to dip anything into it. Another wrote, “Don’t wash your feet, bro. They drink this water.” A counterpoint, however, came from those who felt the outrage was exaggerated: “With all due respect, what’s the issue with washing feet in the river? Is it even illegal?”

A few comments took on a xenophobic tone. One user wrote, “Why are Indians doing this type of stupidity?” Another added, “As if Ganga and Yamuna were not enough, they want to make the Thames a replica.” These remarks have sparked concerns that cultural differences are being used to fuel stereotypes against immigrants.

Pollution In Thames Raises Concern

The viral video has also renewed attention on long-standing concerns about water quality in the Thames. Environmental groups have repeatedly warned of rising sewage discharge, E. coli contamination, and the spread of “wet-wipe islands”, masses of flushed wipes and plastics that settle on the riverbed.

Recent assessments, cited by The Guardian, have highlighted high levels of contamination in several stretches, including near Hammersmith Bridge. A record number of England's designated bathing sites have been downgraded to "poor" after failing water quality parameters.

These problems are due to aged sewage infrastructure, increased urban runoff, and rising levels of pollution. Campaigners have also demanded rapid clean-up measures and called for strict monitoring of waste discharged into the river.

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Cultural Debate or Public Safety Concern?

It has meanwhile sparked further debates on public behavior, cultural practices, and different perceptions of the use of natural bodies of water. Some contended that washing one's feet in a river is a common activity in most parts of the world and must not be judged from a Eurocentric perspective. Others held that the issue was less about culture and more about keeping public hygiene standards in a highly polluted river.

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Authorities in London have not yet issued a statement, and it remains unclear whether the man violated any local regulations. However, environmental experts say the bigger concern is the river’s condition itself, not the brief act of someone dipping their feet into it.

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