Indian-Origin Couple's Kiss at Gujarat Garba Event Sparks Cultural Debate and Public Apology

An Indian-origin couple has issued a formal apology after their kissing video at a garba celebration in Vadodara became viral online. The incident, which many social media users deemed inappropriate, sparked widespread discussions about cultural boundaries and public displays of affection during religious festivities. According to Desh Gujarat reports, the NRI couple departed from India after providing a written apology to local police authorities. The couple, who have been married for 16 years and reside in Melbourne, Australia, had traveled to Vadodara to visit family members and participate in the traditional garba celebrations.

The controversial incident occurred on September 26 during the United Way Garba event at Kalali ground in Vadodara, Gujarat. This celebration is recognized as one of the world's largest Navratri gatherings, typically attracting between 30,000 to 35,000 participants each night, including numerous NRIs from around the world.

A viral video captured the couple engaged in energetic dancing before the husband lifted his wife and kissed her on the lips. What appeared to be a spontaneous romantic gesture quickly became controversial as the footage rapidly spread across various social media platforms.

The online response was immediate and divided. Many netizens and local residents condemned the act as disrespectful to the sacred nature of the garba event. "This is a sacred site, not a nightclub!" commented one outraged user. Another stated firmly, "Obscene acts at garba are unacceptable."

Others came to the couple's defense, with one user questioning the severity of the reaction: "Ridiculous. How is this obscene? It was a peck... not a passionate kiss. It was just a show of affection."

As the social media debate intensified, multiple complaints were filed at the Atladra Police Station, prompting authorities to locate and summon the couple. Responding promptly, the couple submitted a written apology at the station, acknowledging the inappropriateness of their behavior in the cultural context. Following their apology, they were released without further legal consequences. According to a senior police officer, the couple subsequently returned to Australia amid the ongoing controversy.