Fake Sheikh Prank Goes Wrong: Youth Beaten at Kumbh Mela for Social Media Reel

Prayagraj (The Uttam Hindu): An unusual incident unfolded at the ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where a young man became the target of anger from saints after attempting to create a social media reel. The youth, dressed as a fake Arab Sheikh, was caught by the saints and other attendees who proceeded to beat him.

According to a viral video, the young man, wearing the attire of an Arab Sheikh, arrived at the Kumbh Mela with two other youths who were pretending to be his bodyguards. When questioned, they claimed to be from Rajasthan and jokingly introduced themselves as "Sheikh Premanand." The youths’ prank and their choice of attire were deemed disrespectful by the saints and others present, who considered it an affront to their religious beliefs. The youth was apprehended, and in the video, saints and others can be seen surrounding him, removing his Sheikh-style turban, with one of the saints holding him by the collar. In the background, voices of people shouting "Beat him, beat him" can also be heard.

This incident occurred during the Kumbh Mela, when millions of devotees had gathered at the Triveni Sangam for a holy dip and spiritual experience. The video has since gone viral on social media, sparking strong reactions. While some consider it a mere prank, many view it as an insult to the religious gathering. This event has reignited the debate on the impact of social media and reel culture on religious sites. In addition to this incident, other videos from the Kumbh Mela, including one featuring a girl selling malas (prayer beads), have also gone viral. Overall, Kumbh Mela 2025 is making headlines for various reasons.