A disturbing video recently surfaced on social media showing a man performing a bizarre and physically intense ritual on a young child in India. In the clip, the individual holds the child upside down by the legs, swings him, places him on the ground, and appears to step near or on him while using a stick-like object — all in front of a watching crowd.
Many viewers were left stunned, asking: Does this kind of thing actually happen?
Yes, it does — but it represents the extreme fringe, not mainstream India or Hinduism.
What the Ritual Claims to Do
Such practices are often linked to folk traditions, local “ojhas” (exorcists), or tantric healers. They are usually performed with the belief that the child is possessed by evil spirits (“bhoot”), affected by black magic, or needs divine blessings and strength. The dramatic physical actions are meant to drive out negative forces or transfer spiritual power.
While some families genuinely believe these rituals can help, they frequently cross the line into physical and emotional abuse.
A Persistent but Controversial Practice
These types of extreme rituals surface from time to time, especially in rural areas or regions where access to modern healthcare and mental health support is limited. Belief in spirits, curses, and the supernatural power of certain “babas” or sadhus remains strong in some communities. Desperate parents sometimes turn to these healers when conventional medicine fails or is unaffordable.
However, child rights activists, rationalists, and large sections of Indian society strongly condemn such practices. Indian law prohibits harm to minors, and many educated Indians view these incidents with embarrassment and concern.
The Bigger Picture
Mainstream Hinduism does not endorse harming children in the name of faith. Most temples, spiritual leaders, and Hindu organizations promote peace, compassion, and non-violence. Unfortunately, superstition and exploitation by fake godmen continue to thrive in pockets of the country.
Videos like this spark important conversations about:
• Child protection
• The dangers of blind faith
• The need for better education and healthcare access in rural India
• Regulating unregulated spiritual practitioners
As observers, we must differentiate between genuine faith and harmful superstition. While cultural and religious diversity should be respected, the safety and well-being of children must always come first.
What are your thoughts? Have you seen similar videos or stories? Share in the comments.
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