A resident of Shivamogga district, known as ‘Oil Kumar’, has earned viral fame after social media posts claimed he has lived for over three decades on an unusual “diet” – seven to eight litres of engine oil a day, washed down with cups of tea.

An Instagram video that sparked this attention shows Kumar sitting casually with bystanders offering him traditional food like rice and chapati. Instead of accepting the meal, he is seen drinking what he insists is black motor oil, straight from a bottle. According to the viral post, he has reportedly avoided hospitalisation or serious illness throughout these years, despite his alleged oil-based lifestyle.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by AvalakkiPavalakki (@avalakki_pavalakki)

Kumar himself attributes his survival to his devotion to Lord Ayyappa, telling those who question him that his health is protected by divine grace. Locals refer to him simply as ‘Oil Kuma’.

However, doctors and health professionals warn that engine oil is not only unsuitable for consumption but can be fatal. Motor oil contains petroleum-based compounds that are toxic to humans. Experts caution that ingestion can damage the digestive tract, kidneys and lungs – especially if the oil enters the respiratory system. Poison Control advises immediate medical help if anyone experiences breathing difficulty after swallowing oil or fuel products.

Online, reactions were mixed. Some users jokingly commented, “Rip in advance,” while another quipped, “Does he also come with a pollution certificate?” Others were less amused, criticising the viral video for spreading dangerous behaviour. “Totally nonsense, giving the wrong message to society,” one person wrote.