Bengaluru, March 24, 2025 – Heavy rainfall on Saturday brought relief from sweltering heat to Bengaluru, but it also left behind an unusual sight: streets covered in thick, white foam. Videos of the phenomenon, particularly from the NIMHANS Dairy Circle area, have gone viral, sparking curiosity and concern among residents and netizens alike.
The foam, resembling snow at a glance, was captured by Instagram user Milan, who posted a clip with the caption: “Does anyone know what’s happening? Bangalore’s streets turned into a foam party after an unexpected summer rain!” As vehicles rolled through, tyre tracks carved paths in the frothy layer, amplifying the surreal scene. Social media buzzed with theories—some humorous, like “Someone dropped Surf Excel,” others whimsical, suggesting a “Manali Bangalore Yojna” for artificial snow.
Experts point to a natural culprit: soapnut trees (Shikakai), common across Bengaluru. “During the first rains, soapnut flowers mix with water and vehicle movement churns it into foam,” a local observer told NDTV. This isn’t pollution or chemical rain, but a harmless, if slippery, occurrence—posing risks for two-wheelers. Similar foam has appeared before, tied to the city’s flora (Times of India, 2023). Yet, with no official word from authorities, speculation persists—some even jokingly blamed spilt dosa batter.
The real issue? Beyond the spectacle, it highlights Bengaluru’s urban-nature overlap—where tree-lined roads meet modern hazards. For now, the foam’s a fleeting mystery, but it’s a reminder of the city’s unpredictable charm.
