Foreigners Bathe in Bikinis at Ganga Ghat in Rishikesh, Viral Video Sparks Controversy | WATCH

Recently, a video has circulated widely on social media depicting foreign nationals frolicking in bikinis at the sacred Ganga Ghat in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The footage, which has elicited strong reactions from viewers, portrays a departure from the city’s traditional image as a hub of yoga and spirituality. Shared by a user under the handle “Himalayan Hindu,” the video’s caption lambastes the scene as a transformation of the revered Ganges into a beach akin to Goa.

The caption read, “Thank you @pushkardhami for turning Pavitra Ganga (holy river Ganga) into Goa Beach. Such things are now happening in Rishikesh & soon it will become Mini Bangkok. The clip captures foreign women in bikinis and men in shorts enjoying themselves in the river, sparking outrage among locals who view such behaviour as disrespectful to the sanctity of the holy river.

Watch the video here:

“This is no longer a city of yoga and spirituality,” lamented one commenter, echoing sentiments that Rishikesh’s cultural identity is being eroded by what some perceive as a growing influence of Western party culture. The controversy has ignited a debate on social media, with opinions sharply divided. While some decry the blatant disregard for local customs and religious sentiments, others argue for tolerance and openness in a changing world.

Leadership in Uttarakhand has also come under scrutiny, with critics accusing authorities of promoting a tourism model that compromises local values. Calls for stricter regulations and cultural sensitivity have underscored the need for a balanced approach to tourism development in the region.

As discussions continue online, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in preserving cultural heritage amidst evolving global influences.