A brief video of an excited group of Indian travellers dancing beside a stationary plane has ignited a fresh debate about when harmless activities cross the line into public nuisance. The viral clip, shared on X, shows passengers dancing, recording videos, and enjoying themselves next to a VietJet Air aircraft during ground operations. Captioned "POV: gujju anywhere and everywhere," the video has sparked discussions about the stereotyped image of Indian tourists abroad.
Mixed Reactions to the Video
While some viewers saw no issue with the behaviour, others viewed it as another example of a growing concern among travellers today. However, the criticism was not directed at the dancing itself but at the lack of travel etiquette. In recent years, social media has significantly influenced how travellers approach their trips, transforming many from mere tourists into performers in airports, planes, cafes, and even religious sites.
Airports as Restricted Spaces
This shift has led to conflicts between personal freedom and proper conduct. The airport video bothered many because airports are not public spaces but secure environments involving security personnel, airline crew, and ground staff. Any activity perceived as chaotic or disruptive can be problematic, even if no specific law prohibits it. Travellers often argue that a single misbehaving group can tarnish the image of an entire nation, raising issues of stereotyping and racism.
The Impact on Indian Tourists Abroad
Many Indian tourists abroad have expressed frustration over being unfairly profiled based on viral videos showing disturbances, fights on planes, queue-cutting, yelling in tourist areas, or insensitivity at cultural sites. Yet, it is equally unjust to stereotype all Indians based on the actions of a few. Loud and disruptive tourists exist in every nationality.
A Growing Performance Culture
The airport incident highlights a larger problem in tourism: the increasing tendency to treat every trip as a performance. First, travellers must be aware of their surroundings, as what seems fun within a close group can be disturbing to others. Cooperation in queues and adherence to instructions ensure smoother travel. Second, it is crucial to distinguish between cultural appreciation and disruption. Group singing, traditional dancing, and celebrations are part of tourism, but context matters. Critics of the video are not against joy but question the appropriateness of the location.
Viral Culture and Its Consequences
There is growing weariness with the "viral culture" in tourism. Many tourists complain that even the most attractive destinations are overcrowded with cameras, loud entertainment, and influencer activities. Ironically, the same internet culture that encourages recording everything ensures embarrassing moments spread globally within minutes. A brief act intended for fun can quickly become part of international conversations about behaviour, manners, and national image.
While the viral airport video may fade from feeds in days, the discussion about acceptable travel behaviour will likely continue.
