Wash rice twice, not 7 times: Drought-hit England targets faith, cultural habits
England is facing a severe drought, leading to government-funded campaigns that encourage South Asian and Muslim communities to reduce water usage during cultural and religious practices. The initiatives suggest specific methods, such as washing rice fewer times and using a jug for ritual ablution.
Why it matters
The campaign highlights the intersection of environmental policy, resource management, and cultural sensitivity in a multicultural society.
TOI correspondent from London: Wash rice twice, not seven times. Use a one-litre jug, not a running tap for wudu. England’s water crisis has put rice bowls and prayer taps in the crosshairs, with a £270,000 taxpayer-funded campaign urging South Asian communities to wash rice fewer times and Muslims to use less water for ablution.Almost three-quarters of England is in drought after five heatwaves this summer drove down river and reservoir levels, prompting water regulator Ofwat to fund two campaigns under a project called “Water efficiency in faith and diverse communities” to squeeze every drop from everyday water-heavy cultural and religious practices.British Malaysian celebrity chef Ping Coombes features in a video targeting Asian rice-washing habits, saying it is common to wash rice five to seven times until the water runs clear.
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