A viral story emerged about a man in Bengaluru claiming to be 188 years old. This astonishing claim sparked widespread interest and skepticism, leading to a flurry of discussions across social media platforms. The tale quickly captured the attention of various news outlets and the public alike, prompting investigations into its authenticity and implications.
Main Points
Full Details
The individual at the center of this story is reportedly named Baba Shankarappa, who asserts that he was born in 1836. His claim has led many to question the validity of such an age, especially considering that the oldest verified person in history lived to be just 122 years old. The story began circulating after a local news channel aired an interview with Shankarappa, where he shared his life experiences and longevity secrets.
🇮🇳 This Indian Man has just been found in a cave.
It’s alleged he’s 188 years old. Insane. pic.twitter.com/a7DgyFWeY6
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) October 3, 2024
Background
Baba Shankarappa’s story gained traction when he was spotted in a local market, engaging with people and sharing anecdotes from his long life. He claimed to have witnessed significant historical events, including India’s independence in 1947 and the subsequent changes in society. His assertions were met with both admiration and disbelief.
Experts have weighed in on the matter, emphasizing that while it is theoretically possible for someone to live beyond 120 years, there are no documented cases of anyone reaching Shankarappa’s claimed age. Dr. Anjali Rao, a gerontologist, stated, “While we have seen remarkable cases of longevity, such extreme ages raise questions about documentation and verification.”
Investigations and Reactions
Following the viral spread of his story, local authorities began investigating Shankarappa’s claims. They sought to verify his birth records and any other documentation that could substantiate his extraordinary age. However, the lack of formal records from over a century ago poses significant challenges.
Social media platforms exploded with reactions ranging from skepticism to admiration. Many users expressed disbelief, citing scientific studies on human lifespan limits. Others celebrated Shankarappa as a symbol of resilience and vitality.
Cultural Significance
In Indian culture, stories of long-lived individuals often carry deep significance. They are seen as repositories of wisdom and experience. Shankarappa’s tale has reignited conversations about health, diet, and lifestyle choices that contribute to longevity. Traditional practices such as yoga and Ayurveda have been highlighted as potential keys to a long life.
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ANALYSIS: MisleadingFACT: A video of some people helping an elderly individual has been shared, claiming that a 188-year-old Indian Man has just been found in a cave. The fact is that these claims are not true. The elderly man is a Saint named ‘Siyaram Baba’, (1/2) pic.twitter.com/HNak3vUrIM
— D-Intent Data (@dintentdata) October 3, 2024
Official Statements
The local government has issued a statement urging caution regarding claims made by individuals without proper verification. They emphasized the importance of factual reporting and encouraged citizens to rely on credible sources for information.
