The year 2025 was a whirlwind on social media, marked by a unique blend of creative AI trends, humorous viral challenges, and unexpected scandals that captured global attention. From playful mispronunciations to controversies at major concerts, the digital landscape was dominated by moments that sparked conversation, creativity, and sometimes, controversy. Here’s a detailed look back at the events that had everyone talking, sharing, and scrolling.
AI Takes Over: Gemini's Nano Banana & ChatGPT's Ghibli Magic
The fascination with artificial intelligence reached new heights in 2025, as users eagerly experimented with image-generation tools from tech giants. Two trends, in particular, became impossible to escape. OpenAI rolled out a new feature on ChatGPT that let users transform their ideas into artwork inspired by the beloved Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. Known for classics like Princess Mononoke and My Neighbour Totoro, the studio's soft, whimsical aesthetic soon flooded timelines as people reimagined their daily lives in animated form.
Not to be outdone, Google's Gemini launched its own viral sensation in August 2025 called "Nano Banana." It started with users converting their photos into intricate 3D miniature figures. The trend rapidly evolved, with the online community pushing boundaries using diverse prompts to generate a wild array of creative and often surreal AI images, making it one of the most engaging tech trends of the year.
Viral Humour & Pop Culture Phenomena
Beyond AI, organic human creativity also had its moment in the spotlight. The 'Prashant' trend, ignited by content creator Ayush, took over the internet with its simple, hilarious premise. It was built on a deliberate and playful mispronunciation of the word "croissant" as "Prashant." The relatable humour resonated deeply, leading to a cascade of comic videos. Its appeal was so widespread that numerous brands jumped on the bandwagon, creating their own versions to connect with the audience.
Another pop-culture wave that crested in 2025 was the obsession with Labubu dolls. Although these furry, elf-like collectibles by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung first appeared in 2024, they achieved iconic status this year. They became a must-have item for collectors worldwide, featuring prominently in social media posts and establishing themselves as a definitive pop-culture symbol of the year.
Scandals & Unforgettable Real-Life Moments
However, 2025 wasn't all about lighthearted trends. It also witnessed scandals that blurred the lines between public and private life. The most infamous was the Coldplay "Kiss Cam" scandal in July. During a performance of "Fix You" at the Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, the concert's camera focused on Andy Byron, then CEO of Astronomer, and the company's former HR head, Kristin Cabot. The two were seen in a prolonged embrace before reacting with visible panic to the camera—Byron tried to hide, while Cabot covered her face.
The clip spread like wildfire online, triggering intense speculation and debate. The professional fallout was swift: Andy Byron resigned from his post, and Kristin Cabot also left the company following an internal investigation.
In a more positive viral moment, the ancient tradition of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj met modern social media in 2025. Among countless clips from the massive gathering, one person captured the nation's heart. Monalisa 'Moni' Bhonsle, a young garland seller from Indore, found herself at the centre of online admiration. Her images and videos were widely shared, turning her into an unexpected digital sensation and highlighting how timeless Indian traditions continue to inspire new stories.
In summary, 2025 on social media was a year of extreme contrasts—showcasing the incredible potential of AI for creativity, the unifying power of simple humour, the dark side of public exposure, and the beautiful intersection of devotion and virality. These moments collectively defined the digital pulse of the year.
