In today`s hyperconnected world, no event remains confined within national borders. The globe has become a kind of "open theatre," where even the most obscure topics can suddenly steal the spotlight. One such unexpected star is a curious desert creature — Sanda. What was once an unknown reptile is now at the centre of viral videos, memes, jokes, and social media chatter.
What is Sanda?
The Sanda is a desert-dwelling lizard, scientifically known as Uromastyx. Though it resembles a small monitor lizard, it has a stockier build and a thick, spiny tail, which it uses for defence. It goes by several names, including "Mastigour," "Sanda lizard," and "spiny-tailed lizard."
Native to the arid regions of Africa and the Middle East, this herbivore mainly feeds on vegetation, flowers, and seeds, although it may occasionally consume insects when necessary.
Recently, "Sanda hunting" has become a trending topic among Bangladeshi migrant workers in the Middle East. Videos circulating on social media show men sprinting across the desert trying to catch these lizards. The clips are often laced with humor — one man jokes, "If I don’t catch a Sanda, I might lose my job," while another claims, "My sponsor said no visa without a Sanda!"
While these videos are clearly comedic, they also offer a glimpse into the daily struggles of migrant laborers, highlighting their resilience and creativity in finding moments of humour in hardship.
Back in Bangladesh, these videos have gone viral, sparking laughter and conversation. Some joke that a Sanda is now the key to a legal visa. As a result, this unassuming reptile has become a cultural icon, both funny and symbolic of the migrant experience.
Social media is now flooded with posts about "Sanda Biryani" and other playful exaggerations. Scroll through a few reels, and you`re almost guaranteed to come across multiple Sanda-themed clips.
The Myth of Sanda Oil
Another layer to the Sanda phenomenon is the popular belief in Sanda Oil. Rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, the oil is marketed as an aphrodisiac. Although there`s no scientific evidence to support these claims, the oil continues to be sold in regional markets across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Religious Views on Eating Sanda
From an Islamic perspective, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not consume Sanda, but he also didn`t prohibit others from doing so. As a result, some Islamic scholars consider it makruh (discouraged). In the Hanafi school of thought, it is deemed haram (forbidden), while other schools are more lenient.
Mixed Reactions in Bangladesh
The trend has sparked varied reactions across Bangladesh. While many find it humorous and entertaining, others see it as disrespectful or degrading to the dignity of migrant workers. Still, many argue that these videos, though wrapped in humor, express the pain and perseverance of those working far from home in harsh conditions.
What was once just an obscure desert lizard has now become a symbol of laughter and tears, of exhaustion and endurance. The Sanda is no longer just an animal; it represents a slice of real life for many migrant workers.
We may laugh at the videos, but behind the scenes lie stories of hardship, sacrifice, and the unrelenting human spirit. In the age of viral content, it`s important to remember: even as we joke or comment, our perspective should remain respectful and humane.
