From the opulent Ambani wedding that drew global stars to Bill Gates enjoying tea with a local vendor, 2024 has been a year full of viral moments in India. Highlights also include a young cricket talent discovered by Sachin Tendulkar, a groundbreaking chess victory, and a heated debate surrounding popcorn taxation.
Viral Highlights from India: The Ambani Wedding, Bill Gates' Chai, and More
Viral Highlights from India: The Ambani Wedding, Bill Gates' Chai, and More
A look at the most memorable moments from India's vibrant social media scene in 2024, highlighting significant events, viral sensations, and cultural debates.
The year 2024 has proven to be memorable for Indian social media, showcasing a myriad of extravagant and thought-provoking moments that captivated audiences both locally and globally. Notably, the grand wedding of billionaire Mukesh Ambani's son Anant was a multi-month spectacle that began generating buzz in March with the arrival of international superstars. Rihanna's performance marked her first show in India, leading to a star-studded lineup featuring the Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, and Justin Bieber amongst others. The guest list featured influential figures like Bill Gates, Kim Kardashian, and Bollywood's Shah Rukh Khan, among many.
In a different and lighter vein, local chai vendor Dolly Chaiwala catapulted into viral fame after serving tea to Bill Gates. The video of their interaction, which has amassed over 176 million views on Instagram, showcased a simple yet profound moment. Gates remarked on the innovative spirit he observed, while Dolly expressed his surprise upon learning Gates' identity, viewing him merely as a tourist.
India also celebrated sports achievements, particularly in cricket, with 10-year-old Sushila Meena capturing hearts when Sachin Tendulkar shared her impressive bowling skills online. Meena quickly garnered attention from former cricketers who pledged to support her aspirations of representing India.
Chess enthusiasts in India experienced a moment of pride when Gukesh Dommaraju, at just 18 years old, became the youngest world chess champion, surpassing previous records held by legendary players. His emotional victory over China's Ding Liren triggered widespread celebrations, likening the moment to major cricket victories.
Adding a lighter, comedic note to the landscape, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council ignited a heated debate over the taxation of caramel popcorn, classified as a sugar confectionery and subject to higher rates than regular popcorn. The decision drew widespread criticism and humor on social media, igniting discussions about the complexities of India's taxation system.
As 2024 unfolds, India's social media continues to reflect a mosaic of cultural pride, creativity, and spirited discussions that resonate across the world.
