A recent video by a UK vlogger documenting his visit to India has ignited a heated debate, with some praising his content while others criticize it for presenting the country in a negative light. The vlogger, who returned to India six years after his last visit, aimed to assess the country’s “progress.”
His video captures scenes from Delhi and Kolkata, as well as his journey by train to Kolkata. However, the portrayal of dirty roads, broken train compartments, crowded streets, and unhygienic places has upset many viewers.
In his video caption, the vlogger sarcastically remarks, “India, it’s a bit mental, isn’t it! I returned after six years to see how it had progressed (or not).
Join me in the most frustrating place to travel in the world.” He also humorously warns viewers not to attempt such a trip unless they are seasoned travelers.
The video has sparked mixed reactions on YouTube, with some viewers criticizing India based solely on the footage, while others accuse the vlogger of deliberately showing the country in a bad light. The controversy has led to discussions about cultural representation and the responsibility travel vloggers have when portraying other nations.
One YouTube user remarked, “I’ve never seen a travel video that made me want to leave a place I’ll never visit.” Another added, “An Indian palm reader telling foreigners they’re gonna have stomach problems is next-level comedy.”
Some viewers expressed stronger criticism, accusing the vlogger of encouraging racist and rage-bait content. One commenter defended India, stating that the country’s diversity, both culturally and economically, makes it unfair to generalize based on a few negative images. They argued that the vlogger ignored the nation’s achievements and luxury options available to travelers.
The vlogger in question, Benjamin Rich, is known for his YouTube channel Bald and Bankrupt. His journey as a vlogger reportedly began in India after he filed for bankruptcy in the UK due to failed business ventures. Rich is also the author of The Burning Edge: Travels Through Irradiated Belarus, a book documenting his experiences in Belarus after the Chernobyl tragedy.
The debate over his portrayal of India continues, with viewers divided over the vlogger’s approach and the broader implications of how foreign visitors represent other cultures.
