A Train Journey
The video starts with Emma describing the chaotic conditions on a train in India. The train, headed to Varkala from Kochi, was overcrowded. The corridor
near the toilet was in bad condition: the sink overflowed, and passengers were packed together. The trio had opted for a general coach after being unable to secure reserved seats. The video clip captured the scene showing them squeezed amongst passengers in the crowded coach. The unpleasant environment included the smell of sweat, heat, and humidity. It was so crowded that passengers had little room to move. In the video, the vloggers could be heard mentioning they were trying to save money. At the end, Emma provided travel tips for people traveling to India, urging them to book their train tickets early.
Backlash Emerges
The vlogger's video quickly drew criticism. Many online users questioned why these specific conditions were chosen for the video. Some Indians felt that these vloggers intentionally selected the dirtiest conditions to create content. Some viewers said the vloggers should have opted for a reserved class instead of traveling in a general compartment. Other people even asked whether the vloggers were poor and could not afford better tickets, suggesting they only highlight the negative aspects of India. One commenter observed that they only show the bad side of India while not showing the positive aspects. Some of the comments showed frustration, as many people felt the vloggers were exaggerating the reality of the experience. They felt that such experiences were not necessarily a reflection of everyday travel conditions for most Indians.
Similar Scrutiny
This incident is not unique, as another incident with a US-based YouTuber, Tyler Oliveira, also stirred controversy. Oliveira's video from a traditional festival in Karnataka, where villagers throw cow dung, generated similar criticism. It became evident that some foreign content creators frequently faced criticism for the way they represent India. Commenters frequently asked why they always seemed to pick spots most Indians typically avoid. Many questioned the intent and presentation of such content. The consistent pattern of focusing on less-than-ideal conditions and the resulting reactions suggest a broader issue of how India is perceived and presented on the global stage, especially through the eyes of foreign travelers.
Finding Connection
Despite the unpleasant circumstances, the vloggers eventually found some camaraderie. Over time, the environment lightened. The vloggers shared how the heat created a bond among the passengers. They made jokes and turned the struggle into a shared experience. However, the initial shock and discomfort remained a central theme. While the experience was initially difficult, a sense of shared experience emerged. This shift highlighted how people adapted to the situation. It offered a contrasting view to the earlier chaos, showing that even amidst harsh conditions, human connection could develop. The overall takeaway was that, despite the initial struggles, the situation evolved, highlighting resilience and human connection.
