A viral video showcasing Ganpati Visarjan rituals in London has ignited a contentious debate online, raising questions about cultural pride versus the validity of such traditions in foreign contexts, while also highlighting concerns about environmental impacts and the difficulties of maintaining one’s faith away from home.

Some social media users voiced their skepticism over the practice being taken outside India. “Why do people travel abroad only to behave the same way? They claim they’re short on funds and grumble about chores, yet they hop on flights to other countries just to replicate their routines. Why not just stay in India and do it?” one user questioned.

Others seemed to share this sentiment, warning that cultural practices ought to remain a private affair. “Perhaps keeping your culture indoors is the way to go if you’re living abroad. It seems you might be creating issues not just for yourselves but for future generations as well. After all, faith isn’t necessarily validated through public displays of rituals. Whether you have permission or not, does it really add any value?”

Environmental concerns have stirred up further skepticism around the issue. Critics have raised questions about the potential harm to local ecosystems from submerging idols in public waters. “If you’re going to do this, at least take off the ornaments; it’s hazardous for geese and contaminates the water,” one user cautioned. Another chided, “Those paints aren’t going anywhere. Strip all the fabric before dunking them. If you really must, do it in a bucket—stop polluting everywhere.”

While some hailed the video as a supposed celebration of culture abroad, others skeptically viewed it as an environmental and social challenge, questioning whether traditions can truly adapt outside their home country.

As the debate drags on, one cannot help but question—the Ganesh Chaturthi festival appears to reveal a rather troubling intersection of faith, migration, environment, and cultural identity in the global era.

This was not the first instance of Indian traditions drawing global attention, but one can’t help but wonder about the motivations behind it. Just last month, a video of Indians performing Ganga Aarti at a riverbank in Canada had also sparked debate online, raising questions about authenticity and cultural appropriation.

Meanwhile, Anant Chaturdashi, the pinnacle of Ganesh Visarjan celebrations, is observed on Saturday, 6 September, around the globe. This day signifies the grand finale of the vibrant 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival.