Karnataka man claims he survives on 7-8 litres of engine oil every day. Viral video shows him refusing food

According to medical journals, there are several consequences that could follow from swallowing or inhaling such substances.

A man from Karnataka drew wide attention after social media posts claimed that he had replaced ordinary food with engine oil for more than thirty years. Identified locally as “Oil Kumar” and said to be from Shivamogga district, he reportedly consumes seven to eight litres of motor oil each day, alongside regular cups of tea.

The account circulated after a video on Instagram showed him declining offers of rice and chapati from bystanders and instead drinking directly from a bottle filled with engine oil. According to the post, despite this practice lasting decades, he has never required admission to hospital or treatment for any serious health complaint.

Kumar attributes his ability to endure such a diet to spiritual faith. The social media account that shared the footage recorded his words: he believed his survival had been possible only through the grace of Lord Ayyappa.

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Medical professionals, however, stressed that motor oil contains petroleum-based compounds that are toxic to humans. They warned that ingestion posed immediate and long-term dangers, particularly if aspirated into the lungs.

According to medical journals, there are several consequences that could follow from swallowing or inhaling such substances.

Respiratory system risks: Chemical pneumonitis: inflammation and injury to lung tissue caused by oil entering the airways.
Aspiration pneumonia: infection of the lungs following inhalation of the oil.
Respiratory failure: prolonged coughing, wheezing and breathlessness that could progress to life-threatening conditions.

Digestive tract effects: Burns or irritation in the mouth, throat and stomach.
Vomiting, sometimes with blood, and internal haemorrhage.
Long-term outcomes including ulcers, perforations and chronic infections.
Other organ damage:

Neurological issues such as headaches, dizziness, disorientation and seizures.

Potential injury to the liver and kidneys from toxic compounds.

Risk of irregular heart rhythms due to the hydrocarbon content, with possible fatal consequences.

"Rip in advance," an Instagram user wrote. Another user slammed the man and accused him of promoting life-threatening activities.