A new video has started a fresh discussion on how people use public spaces in India. A family has been getting attention after they were seen cooking on a national highway. The clip shows them setting up a small stove and a gas cylinder to prepare a full meal, even though they are on the side of a highway. No vehicles are passing in the frame and the family looks completely relaxed while cooking outdoors.
In the video, the man tells his wife that many people are messaging them and asking why they are making food on the road instead of eating at a food stall or bringing meals from home. The wife accepts that it may not be the right thing to do, but she adds that they are not blocking traffic. She says they are in a rest area and the main road is on the other
side. The couple, who have done this many times before, insist they are not disturbing anyone or causing any risk.
Family Seen Cooking on Highway Sparks New Debate Online
The video opens with the man and a kid resting comfortably on the road, while the wife is preparing the meal. The man informing his wife says, “Many people are messaging and commenting that we are cooking on the road and it can distract others.”
The woman replies, “We also know that we should not cook on the road, but you can see that this is a full rest area and the main road is on the other side.”
Civic sense is a rare luxury in India , something not everyone seems able to afford. Take this scene for example: a family has started cooking right in the middle of road , turning the area messy. Tell me honestly, is this acceptable? pic.twitter.com/Xytjpv2DlS
— The Nalanda Index (@Nalanda_index) December 8, 2025
Many Criticise The Family For Their Lack Of Civic Sense
Reacting to the post, a user suggested, “There should be rest areas every few kilometres for this on highways with restrooms and benches so people who are travelling far distances can take breaks.”
Another shared, “Honestly, this is just wild. Cooking in the middle of the road? That’s not jugaad, that’s chaos. Public space isn’t a personal kitchen and turning the whole area messy is even worse. Civic sense shouldn’t be a luxury, it’s a basic responsibility.”
“The Road Tax should also include Kitchen Tax,” a comment read.
An individual stated, “There is a massive deficit of civic sense in the country. The assumption that public space and property can be used in any way suitable to oneself with no concern for others has to be removed right from primary education itself and be a compulsory part of the NCERT and school curriculum through theory and practical classes all over India.”
Another mentioned, “Traffic Police should find them as the number is visible and should fine them. Definitely not acceptable at all.”
One more added, “Seeing people cook on the road is frustrating because it turns a public space into a health and safety problem for everyone. At the same time, it shows how some families don’t have proper spaces or support, so enforcement should go hand in hand with giving people better options.”
The couple in the video often upload similar clips on their Instagram page. They are usually seen driving across different states by car and preparing or eating their meals on the roadside during their trips.
