Actor enjoys Gujarati snacks on airport floor in viral video. Internet cannot decide how to feel

Gujaratis are known for carrying their beloved theplas, dhoklas, and khakhras while travelling across the world, because wherever they go, food must follow. While travelling and snacking mid-journey is one thing, sitting on an airport floor and eating is a whole different story. Recently, a video capturing this very scene of a Gujarati man sitting and eating Khaman on the airport floor went viral, sparking a heated debate online. While some viewers saw it as a heartwarming reminder of staying rooted to one’s culture, others criticised it as a lack of civic sense in a public space. So, what exactly happened?

A viral video of a Gujarati man casually enjoying a meal while sitting on the floor at Surat airport has ignited a debate on social media about civic etiquette. According to the Indian Express, the man has been identified as Gujarati actor Hitesh Thakkar. In the now-viral clip, Thakkar is seen sitting cross-legged on the airport floor, with a newspaper neatly laid out in front of him holding khaman, a beloved Gujarati snack. He was joined by a group of friends, all seated comfortably around him, creating an unusual scene that has divided opinions online. They were all set to fly out to Pattaya, Thailand.

The video was shared on X with the caption, “Proud of this Indian uncle who upheld his traditional diet and eating style in the airport gate before boarding flight to Bangkok. Be proud of your roots.”


Internet divided
The viral video led to a flood of mixed reactions online. Some users shared their own experiences, recalling how they too had enjoyed homemade snacks like bhel while waiting at airports abroad. A section of people defended the act, arguing that it was a matter of pride in Indian traditions and a rejection of the need to conform to Western expectations for acceptance.

However, many others criticised the behaviour, calling it inappropriate for a public space like an airport. Several pointed out that while embracing traditional eating habits was commendable, doing so at boarding gates showed a lack of civic sense. Some highlighted that public spaces have rules that everyone must respect, and acting otherwise gives rise to negative perceptions about India's hygiene standards. A few harsh comments also mentioned that such actions contribute to India still being stereotyped as a "third world country," and sarcastically mentioned that eating food with hands off a newspaper on an airport floor was anything but "classy."