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Indian Tourists’ Garba on Vietnam Airport Tarmac Sparks Global Backlash

publish time

29/05/2026

publish time

29/05/2026

HANOI, May 29: A viral video showing a group of Indian tourists performing garba on an airport tarmac in Vietnam has ignited a storm of backlash online, raising serious questions about public conduct and airport security norms.

The widely circulated clip captures travellers forming a circle and energetically dancing just metres away from a parked VietJet Air aircraft. The scene, believed to have taken place either shortly before boarding or immediately after disembarking, unfolded in what appears to be a restricted section of the airport grounds—an area typically governed by strict movement protocols and tight supervision.

While some bystanders paused to watch the unexpected spectacle, others walked past, seemingly unfazed. However, online audiences were far less indifferent.

What has particularly stunned viewers is not the dance itself, but its setting. Airport tarmacs are highly controlled zones where safety and discipline take precedence. The sight of passengers breaking into a celebratory folk dance in such a space has transformed the moment into a flashpoint of controversy.

Social media erupted with criticism, with many users calling the act inappropriate and irresponsible in an international environment. The incident has also reignited a broader debate on travel etiquette, cultural expression abroad, and the global image of Indian tourists.

Several commenters warned that such behaviour risks reinforcing negative stereotypes. One user wrote that while showcasing culture is admirable, it must be done with “respect and responsibility,” especially in sensitive public spaces like airports. Another bluntly remarked that such actions contribute to Indians facing “disrespect outside the country,” while a third urged travellers to exercise “basic civic sense” when abroad.

As the video continues to circulate, it has not only sparked outrage but also underscored the delicate balance between cultural expression and public decorum—particularly in high-security, international settings.