Bengaluru: A calming social media trend featuring a glowing swirl of turmeric in water has taken an emotional turn after a Gaza resident used the viral reel format to highlight the harsh reality of life under siege.

The "turmeric glow" trend, where users stir a pinch of turmeric in water placed over a phone flashlight in a dark room, has gone viral for its calming, almost magical visual effect. It has been hailed as a DIY science demo and sensory delight, lighting up social media with golden hues.

But for Mohamed Al Khalidi, a Palestinian, the trend evoked trauma instead of wonder.

In a reel posted three days ago, Mohamed uses the trend's format to create a stark contrast. What begins as a peaceful golden swirl quickly transitions into harrowing scenes of explosions lighting up the Gaza sky. Captioned, "Trend vs. Reality...I had seen those lights before — but they weren’t beautiful," the video has since struck a chord with thousands across the world.

We don’t even have water to waste

Several other Gaza residents echoed the sentiment. In comment sections and new reels, users stated they aren't participating in the trend, not because they didn’t want to, but because they didn’t have access to necessities.

“I am so sorry Mohammed. When I saw this trend, all I could think about is Gaza,” one commenter wrote. “May Allah protect you and your family and other Palestinians,” another prayed.

In Gaza, the situation is dire. According to UNICEF and international watchdogs, over 65,000 children are suffering from malnutrition and many areas now receive only 1.5 litres of water per person per day, far below the minimum required for survival. The UN has warned of a “man-made drought”, with more than 40% of water systems collapsed. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and civilians are packed into overcrowded shelters amid continuing airstrikes and food shortages.

Human rights groups and humanitarian organisations have repeatedly called attention to the deteriorating conditions in the region. Meanwhile, for some, the light emitting from the trend means healing while it is horror for others.