Newslist

A viral video of an Indian man celebrating his new citizenship in New Zealand has sparked a heated debate online.

The video, amassing over two million views, features an Indian man celebrating his New Zealand citizenship with a theatrical twist. Strutting confidently in a blue “India” T-shirt, he dramatically removes it to reveal a New Zealand T-shirt underneath, drawing cheers from the crowd and amusement from officials present at the ceremony. The light-hearted act, however, has polarized opinions, particularly among Indian Instagram users.

For some, the celebration resonates deeply. “Ten years ago, this would have made me mad. Now I understand why he’s celebrating,” one user commented, reflecting a growing empathy for seeking better opportunities abroad. Another, an architect, cited “overwhelming corruption” in India as a reason for considering emigration, while a humorous take read, “The biggest achievement in India is leaving India.”

Conversely, critics found the gesture disrespectful. “Someone who can’t respect where they come from… the attitude here is wrong for both countries,” one netizen argued, urging respect for both nations. Another remarked, “He may leave India, but he will be Indian,” suggesting cultural ties endure despite citizenship changes.

Not all Indian expatriates in New Zealand share the celebrant’s enthusiasm. A Reddit post by an Indian who grew up there warned against immigrating, calling New Zealand “geographically isolated” and “extremely dull.”

He contrasted its small-town feel and disconnection from the world with India’s vibrant markets and festivals, offering a sobering counterpoint to the viral joy. This divide underscores a broader conversation about identity, opportunity, and the complexities of leaving one’s homeland.