A video showing a social media influencer dancing in a bikini amid snowfall in Manali has sparked a sharp backlash online, igniting a debate over public decorum and cultural sensitivity in popular tourist destinations.
The clip, widely circulated across Instagram, X, and other platforms, has drawn both criticism and support from netizens.
The video, believed to have been shot at a popular tourist spot in Manali, shows a woman dancing outdoors amid snow and freezing temperatures while wearing a bikini. The influencer, identified as Megha Rani, quickly drew online attention as the visuals circulated widely, with rising view counts accompanied by sharply divided reactions on social media.
An influencer’s bikini dance in snowy Manali has triggered
backlash online. Critics call it disrespectful to local culture; supporters say it’s about personal freedom. Where should the line be drawn between self-expression and shared spaces?#Manali #SocialMediaDebate pic.twitter.com/kJ6rFpqNeK
— Bollywood Critics (@BollyCritBuzz) January 23, 2026
On the other side of the debate, supporters came out in defence of the influencer’s right to personal expression, arguing that clothing choices should not be dictated by public opinion. They said the backlash reflected moral policing, which disproportionately targets women in online spaces.
Critics on social media accused the influencer of being disrespectful to local culture and traditions, arguing that such content is inappropriate in shared public spaces, especially in a hill town with deep social and religious roots.
So far, there has been no official confirmation of any action by local authorities or of any laws being violated during the shoot. While Manali does not have a formal dress code for tourists, general public conduct laws and local norms may come into play if content prompts complaints or causes public disturbance.
At present, there is no verified information suggesting that legal proceedings or notices have been issued in connection with the video.
When we thought nothing worse was left to see, social media proves us wrong again. No respect for the place, no respect for locals. These are family spots and tourist destinations, not cheap content zones. Because of such people, these places are slowly getting ruined. pic.twitter.com/miGFHponVY
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) January 22, 2026
The controversy over the bikini dance video filmed in Manali’s snow has once again brought focus to the delicate balance influencers navigate between creative freedom and social responsibility. Digital media experts point out that content created in public spaces carries greater accountability, as it engages diverse audiences, cultural sensitivities and the image of real locations.
The debate also follows recent incidents, including one in which a group of men from Haryana were seen dancing naked with alcohol bottles in what appeared to be a public space in Himachal Pradesh.
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