Cops walk barefoot on hot embers as part of 'ritual', widespread criticism after video went viral

HYDERABAD: As part of the rituals, we have seen people walking on fire walking and piercing skin with vel skewers. A video of such a ritual, where police officers walking through embers is now going viral on social media. The incident took place in Nalgonda district of Telangana.

In the viral video, officers in police uniform can be seen walking through burning embers. The ritual was part of 'Sri Parvati Jadala' during the celebrations at the Narketpally Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple. After the release of the footage on Wednesday, there were many criticisms.

An investigation was started at the department level after the video went viral. Top police officials clarified that this has nothing to do with the department and is not official. Top officials said it was their personal matter.

Police officers walked barefoot over the fire pit as part of the annual #CheruvugattuJatara ritual in Narketpally Mandal of #Nalgonda District.

Some reported that it is done to create awareness on "superstitions."

But top police officials confirmed that it has nothing to do… pic.twitter.com/LVTdI0GfJK

— Sudhakar Udumula (@sudhakarudumula) February 21, 2024