Beating the heat: Portable coolers follow Indian guru during heatwave
A video showing attendants carrying portable air coolers beside an Indian spiritual leader during a severe heatwave has gone viral, drawing mixed reactions across social media.
The footage features Sant Rampal walking barefoot inside his ashram while followers move several portable cooling units alongside him. Others are seen waving cloth fans as temperatures continue to soar across parts of India.
The clip gained wider attention after Indian businessman Harsh Goenka reposted it online with a joke referencing the guru’s “fan following."
The unusual scene triggered debate over the optics of comfort and privilege surrounding religious figures.
Some social media users criticised what they described as excessive or luxury-like arrangements around a spiritual leader, with several mocking the spectacle online.
Others, however, defended the cooling measures, arguing that seeking relief from extreme temperatures should not attract criticism, particularly for older individuals.
The viral moment comes as large parts of India continue to endure extreme heat conditions.
Authorities in several regions have issued health warnings and urged residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours.
According to the India Meteorological Department, temperatures in some areas have climbed above 45 degrees Celsius in recent days, disrupting daily activities and forcing some schools to suspend classes.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
