A viral video allegedly showing people consuming alcohol and cooking non-vegetarian food on a boat near Man Mandir Ghat
June 23, 2026: A video purportedly showing a group of people consuming alcohol and preparing non-vegetarian food on a boat in the Ganga near Varanasi’s Man Mandir Ghat has sparked widespread outrage on social media. Although the footage is believed to be old, it recently resurfaced online and drew criticism from several users who objected to the activities taking place on the river. The incident reignited discussions about conduct on boats operating along the Ganga in Varanasi, one of India’s most significant religious and tourist destinations.
Following the circulation of the video, Varanasi Police launched an investigation and verified details related to the incident. Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Atul Anjan Tripathi said authorities arrested five individuals seen in the footage and registered a case against them. The boat involved in the incident was also seized. Police have not disclosed the exact charges but confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against those involved.
The controversy comes months after another viral video from the Ganga showed people consuming biryani during an iftar gathering on a boat, a matter that later reached court. With repeated incidents attracting public attention, authorities have intensified monitoring of activities along the river. Police have warned that violations of rules and regulations on the Ganga will not be tolerated and stated that strict action will continue against anyone found breaching prescribed norms.