Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 2: A recent incident at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (T3) has stirred a conversation on social media, after a woman travelling to Vietnam and Malaysia expressed strong criticism towards a group of Indian travellers who were seen loudly chanting patriotic slogans and filming reels in the airport’s waiting area.

The flyer, visibly upset, took to social media to narrate her experience, stating that the group of 10-15 individuals began chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and making noisy videos near the boarding gate, disturbing others present. She questioned the necessity of expressing patriotism in such a disruptive manner, especially in a place where silence and decorum are expected.

“If you are so patriotic, then why travel to another country?” she wrote, adding, “If you want to make reels, do it without shouting and disturbing others.”

Her post, accompanied by a photo of an Indian passport tucked into a flight ticket, quickly gained traction online, with netizens divided in their reactions.

While some supported the group’s enthusiasm for the nation, a majority criticised the public display. One user remarked on the irony, saying, “Chanting ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and then leaving the country? How does that add up?”

Others questioned the depth of such expressions of nationalism, calling them superficial. “Patriotism isn’t about shouting slogans for social media. It's about respecting rules, keeping public spaces clean, and being considerate of others,” commented another.

A few pointed out the importance of supporting the Indian economy instead. “If you're really patriotic, travel within India. Support local tourism and economy. That’s true love for the nation,” read one comment.

Another user noted the inconvenience caused: “Airports are not film sets. People are trying to rest, listen to boarding calls. It’s not a place for shouting matches.”

The incident has sparked a larger conversation around what it means to be patriotic in modern times, with many calling for a more responsible, civic-minded form of nationalism, rooted in everyday actions rather than mere slogans.

While no official action was taken against the group, the episode has reignited the need for maintaining decorum in public spaces, especially those like airports, where sensitivity and silence are essential.