NRI Couple Kiss at United Way Garba: A video of an NRI couple kissing during Vadodara’s famous United Way Garba has triggered outrage on social media, with many calling it disrespectful to Navratri traditions. The couple, summoned by police after a complaint, admitted their mistake and issued a written apology before returning to Australia.
A Night of Festivity Turns Controversial
Vadodara, Gujarat – Navratri in Vadodara is known for its grandeur, devotion, and high-energy Garba nights. But this year, a viral video from the United Way Garba at Kalali ground has become the center of a cultural debate.
The footage, captured on September 26, shows an NRI man lifting his wife and kissing her on the dance floor as Garba continued around them. The moment, which might have gone unnoticed in another setting, quickly went viral and drew criticism for being out of place at a religious celebration dedicated to Mataji’s worship.
Complaint Filed, Couple Summoned
Soon after the video spread online, a complaint was lodged at Atladra Police Station. Authorities identified the duo as Pratik Patel, a resident of Manjalpur, and his wife from Anand. Both are Australian citizens of Indian origin, married for 16 years and parents of two children.
Police called the couple in for questioning. During the inquiry, they acknowledged their actions had upset cultural sentiments and agreed that the Garba venue was not an appropriate place for such behavior.
Written Apology to Police
The couple provided a written apology, admitting their conduct was disrespectful given the sanctity of Navratri festivities. Officials confirmed: “They submitted in writing that kissing at the venue was wrong and inappropriate. They apologised and assured it would not be repeated.”
Following the apology, the police let them off with a warning. Shortly after, the couple flew back to Melbourne, Australia, where they currently reside.
Mixed Reactions Online
The video was first posted on X (formerly Twitter) by the handle ‘YearOfTheKraken’ and quickly crossed over 1 million views. While many users slammed the couple for crossing cultural boundaries, others defended them, pointing out double standards around public behavior in India.
One comment read: “Why is public urination acceptable but a harmless kiss invites police action?” Another argued that cultural norms should be respected: “Garba is devotional and spiritual, not a place for PDA. The apology was necessary.”
This clash of views has sparked a larger discussion about how personal freedoms coexist with cultural traditions in modern India.
Balancing Culture and Personal Freedom
The Vadodara Garba controversy reflects the ongoing challenge of balancing traditional values with contemporary expressions of love and individuality. For many, Navratri is more than a celebration—it is a sacred cultural and spiritual event. At the same time, younger generations and NRIs often view gestures of affection differently, shaped by global influences.
The written apology may have closed the chapter legally, but online, the debate continues to highlight how India negotiates between preserving its traditions and adapting to changing social norms.