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In mid-September 2025, a peculiar story from Shivamogga, Karnataka, captured the internet’s attention. Dubbed “Oil Kumar,” a man allegedly sustains himself on 7–8 liters of engine oil daily, supplemented only by cups of tea, and has reportedly done so for over three decades. According to a viral Instagram post by the user ‘avalakki_pavalakki,’ Kumar refuses conventional food like rice or chapati, opting instead to drink engine oil straight from a bottle. The post further claims that, despite this hazardous habit, Kumar has never been hospitalized or suffered serious health issues, attributing his survival to the divine blessings of Lord Ayyappa. However, medical experts have debunked this sensational story, warning that such a diet is not only impossible but would be fatal.
The Viral Video and Public Fascination
The story gained traction through a widely circulated Instagram video showing Kumar rejecting offers of traditional meals from bystanders. Instead, he calmly sips from a bottle of engine oil, leaving viewers both intrigued and skeptical. The claim that Kumar has maintained this routine for over 30 years without medical complications has fueled online fascination, with many marveling at the seemingly miraculous tale. Yet, the absence of verifiable evidence and the scientific implausibility of the story have raised red flags, leading experts to label the videos as likely fabricated or exaggerated for attention.
Medical Experts Debunk the Myth
Medical professionals have unanimously dismissed the possibility of a human surviving on engine oil, emphasizing its extreme toxicity. Engine oil, a petroleum-based product, contains harmful hydrocarbons and heavy metals that are poisonous to the human body. Consuming even small amounts can lead to catastrophic health consequences, including:
Organ Damage: Ingesting engine oil would severely harm vital organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and brain, leading to irreversible damage or failure.
Respiratory Failure: Aspiration of oil into the lungs can cause chemical pneumonitis, severe pneumonia, or fatal respiratory failure.
Gastrointestinal Harm: Swallowing engine oil would burn and irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach lining, potentially causing ulcers, internal bleeding, or perforations.
Neurological Effects: Toxic compounds in the oil could trigger symptoms like dizziness, confusion, seizures, or even coma.
Given these risks, experts assert that consuming
7–8 liters of engine oil daily for decades, as claimed, would be fatal long before such a duration could be reached. The story’s assertion that Kumar has avoided hospitalization entirely further undermines its credibility.
A Cautionary Tale Against Viral Sensationalism
While “Oil Kumar’s” story has captivated social media, it serves as a reminder of the dangers of glorifying unverified and hazardous claims. Medical professionals urge the public not to be swayed by such sensational tales and to recognize that engine oil is categorically unsafe for human consumption. The viral nature of the story, amplified by platforms like Instagram, highlights the need for critical thinking when encountering extraordinary claims online. Whether a publicity stunt or a misunderstanding, the tale of “Oil Kumar” lacks scientific grounding and should not be emulated or celebrated.
A Viral Myth Debunked: The Importance of Health and Skepticism
The curious case of “Oil Kumar” may have sparked intrigue across social media, but it remains a myth unsupported by science. As fascinating as the story appears, it underscores the importance of skepticism and reliance on credible information, especially when it comes to matters of health. For now, the legend of the man who “survives on engine oil” remains just that—a legend, not reality.