A video showing a group of tourists performing Garba aboard Kochi’s popular Water Metro has sparked a lively debate online, with many social media users questioning whether public transport is an appropriate venue for such celebrations.
The incident is the latest in a series of similar videos involving Indian tourists performing the traditional Gujarati folk dance in public spaces around the world. In recent weeks, videos of Garba performances on an airport tarmac in Vietnam, Hanoi’s streets and even the Great Wall of China have gone viral, drawing mixed reactions from viewers.
Now, Kochi’s Water Metro has become the latest backdrop for the dance. While some viewers appreciated the celebratory spirit, many others expressed concern about public etiquette and the use of shared spaces.
As the discussion gained traction online, including among listeners of Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No. 1 radio station, several social media users argued that public transport systems should be respected as common spaces meant for all passengers.
Comments on the viral video included remarks such as, “Respecting shared public spaces is just as important as expressing yourself,” while others stressed that the Water Metro is a public service and not a performance venue. Some users called for stricter enforcement of rules, while others highlighted the need for greater civic awareness in crowded public settings.
Safety concerns were also raised, with several commenters noting that activities involving dancing or movement on a water-based transport service could pose risks to passengers. Some suggested that such celebrations would be more suitable on private boats, chartered vessels or designated event spaces rather than public transport.
However, not everyone viewed the incident negatively. A section of social media users felt that celebrations should be welcomed as long as they do not disrupt fellow passengers or compromise safety.
The incident has once again sparked a broader conversation about balancing cultural expression with public responsibility, particularly in shared spaces used by commuters and tourists alike.
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL), which operates the Water Metro service, had not issued a public response at the time of reporting.
