India's Viral Sensations of 2025: A Year in Review

Wed Dec 31 2025 08:51:26 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

From Bollywood glamour to historic sports victories, India’s social media landscape was abuzz with iconic moments in 2025 that sparked conversation and celebration across the nation.

In 2025, India was captivated by a series of viral moments that made headlines and ignited social media discussions. Highlights included Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan's debut at the Met Gala, the Indian women's cricket team winning their first World Cup, and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's groundbreaking journey to the International Space Station. Each event not only reflected India's diverse culture but also showcased its growing influence on the global stage.

With millions of posts uploaded every day, India's social media churns out a viral moment almost on cue. If you've lost track of what thrilled - and infuriated - users in 2025, here's a handy recall: a round-up of the year's moments that made the country pause, laugh, or even scoff.

Shah Rukh Khan at his first ever Met Gala

In May, Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan attended his first ever Met Gala and clips of him walking the red carpet got an ecstatic reception from fans worldwide. The theme for this year's Gala, one of the biggest nights in fashion, was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which focused exclusively on menswear. Khan arrived on the red carpet in an outfit created by Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, decked out with his own dandy cane, plenty of bling, and sunglasses. SRK, as he known to many fans, is one of the most iconic stars in the world's biggest film industry.

King Charles welcomed with a Bollywood hit song

Of all the tunes you would expect to hear at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey, a Bollywood song isn't on the list. However, a pipe band played Dhoom Machale to welcome the Royal Family at the event in March, going viral on Indian social media.

When Indian women made World Cup history

India made history in November, defeating South Africa to clinch their first Women's World Cup win. When skipper Harmanpreet Kaur took the final catch, the roar that erupted at Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium echoed across the country, marking a monumental moment in Indian cricket.

The first time an Indian stepped foot on the ISS

In June, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian ever to set foot on the International Space Station (ISS). His trip marked a crucial turning point for India's ambitions in space exploration.

Magnus Carlsen's table slam after defeat against Gukesh

Indian teenager Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest world champion last year and in June, he defeated world chess champion Magnus Carlsen. Carlsen's outburst following his defeat sparked conversations and humorous recreations across social media.