Rubble bucket challenge: ice is out in new charity craze

The ice bucket challenge, in which people are filmed tipping a bucket of iced water over their heads, has a new rival – and it looks considerably more painful.

The rubble bucket challenge, intended to raise awareness of the plight of Gaza residents rebuilding their city after 50 days of war, is spreading almost as quickly across social media.

Where did the ice bucket challenge come from?

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The idea seems to have become inextricably linked with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – the American name for motor neurone disease), in mid-July, but the concept of dumping freezing water on one's head for charity had been floating around the internet for a few years before. Once it made its debut on US TV this July, however, the challenge boomed, with celebrities including Matt Damon, George W Bush, Mark Zuckerberg, Kermit the Frog and even Alex Salmond taking part, says the BBC.

How do you do a 'rubble bucket challenge'?

Challengers should tip a bucket of building rubble and dust over their heads, film it and then post the result on the internet. The original rubble bucket challengers did not nominate specific people to take the challenge but left it open to "everybody" instead.

Who invented the rubble bucket challenge?

According to The Independent, Mohammed Darwaza, a Jordanian comedian, and Palestinian journalist Ayman al Aloul came up with the idea, perhaps independently of each other. Darwaza's was the first video to hit YouTube, appearing last Friday, while al Aloul's arrived at the weekend.

What is the rubble bucket challenge?

In his YouTube film, journalist Ayman al Aloul explains that while he liked the idea of the ice bucket challenge, in Palestine water is too important "to empty over our heads". He adds: "And even if the water is available it is difficult to freeze it." Apparently standing among the ruins of a building destroyed by shelling, he instead allows an assistant to tip rubble over his head. Afterwards, he explains that he may not find any water to wash the dust off when he gets home. He asks others to repeat the feat to show their solidarity for Gaza, especially "those who have followers and audience".

Has the rubble bucket caught on?

The Independent says it has "transcended the Middle East" with people copying the idea in Canada and Malaysia. There do not seem to have been any celebrity endorsements yet.

Are there any other bucket challenges out there?

Yes. The 'rice bucket challenge' predates the rubble bucket, reports The Wire. It was invented in India by campaigner Manju Latha Kalanidhi who felt it would be "preposterous" to repeat the ice bucket challenge in her country. Her version encourages people to cook a bowl of rice and then share it with a hungry person. In California, meanwhile, restrictions on wasting water during a drought mean enterprising challengers have been using sand in their buckets.